Liverpool’s Slow Start Continues as Arsenal Prepare to Take Centre Stage on Monday

By Osmara Digital Media

Liverpool’s difficult start to the 2026/27 Premier League campaign continued on Saturday after the Reds were held to a 2–2 draw by Nottingham Forest at Anfield, leaving the new-look side still searching for its first league victory of the season.

The result means Liverpool have now drawn their opening two league matches under new manager Andoni Iraola, collecting just two points from a possible six. After also sharing the spoils with Newcastle United in their opening fixture, Saturday’s draw has raised fresh questions about Liverpool’s defensive organisation and their ability to turn promising performances into victories.

Nottingham Forest twice took the lead at Anfield, with Dan Ndoye opening the scoring before Morgan Gibbs-White converted a penalty in the second half. Liverpool responded through new signing Alexander Isak, but Forest regained the advantage before Víctor Muñoz rescued a point for the hosts with an 82nd-minute equaliser.

For Iraola, the result will offer some encouragement but also underline the work still required. Liverpool showed greater attacking urgency after the interval, yet defensive lapses and a lack of intensity in the opening half allowed Forest to repeatedly threaten.

Liverpool’s slow beginning now provides an intriguing backdrop to the rest of the weekend as attention turns towards Arsenal, who will play Aston Villa on Monday. Arsenal began their campaign with a convincing 3–0 victory over Coventry City and will be looking to maintain that winning momentum when they travel to Villa. With Liverpool dropping points again, Arsenal have an opportunity to strengthen their early position in the title race if they can secure another victory. Monday’s encounter therefore carries added significance, particularly as Mikel Arteta’s side seeks to demonstrate that its strong opening was more than simply a promising start.

While it is still far too early to draw conclusions about the title race, the opening weeks of the season are already producing contrasting stories. Liverpool are searching for answers after consecutive draws, while Arsenal head into Monday’s fixture with confidence and an opportunity to make an early statement.

The Premier League season remains in its infancy, but every dropped point can add pressure as the campaign gathers pace. For Liverpool, the priority will be finding consistency; for Arsenal, Monday presents a chance to keep the momentum firmly on their side.