Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that his side will form a guard of honour for newly crowned Premier League champions Liverpool when the two teams meet at Anfield on Sunday, May 11, 2025. The respectful gesture, though not mandatory, has long been a tradition in English soccer to acknowledge title-winning teams.

Liverpool clinched the Premier League title with four games to spare following a season of dominance under manager Arne Slot. The Reds have been widely praised for their consistency, tactical discipline, and attacking efficiency. Arteta joined that chorus of admiration, stating: “They deserve that. They’ve been the better team, the most consistent. What Arne and the coaching staff have done is fascinating.”

Despite being early-season title challengers, Arsenal gradually fell off the pace and now sit third in the standings. Yet Arteta believes that honouring Liverpool at Anfield is not just a symbol of sportsmanship but also a motivator for his own players. “They will hold that trophy, and someone has to come and take it off them,” he said. “We want to be that team next season.”

The Gunners will be eager to use the match as a benchmark and potentially spoil Liverpool’s celebrations with a strong performance. Arsenal have not won at Anfield since 2012, making Sunday’s encounter both symbolic and competitive.

Liverpool, with the title already secured, could rest key players, but the atmosphere at Anfield is expected to be celebratory. Arsenal, on the other hand, will be desperate to rediscover form heading into the final stretch of the campaign.

Arteta’s confirmation of the guard of honour underscores Arsenal’s respect for tradition and competitive spirit, even in the face of disappointment. As fans look forward to a high-stakes clash between two of the Premier League’s top sides, all eyes will be on Anfield this weekend.

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