Liverpool 5-1 Arsenal: 3 possible impacts of the loss on Arsenal | Premier League 2018-19

#2 Spending in January

Arsenal lack reliable defenders

Many experienced defenders are currently on the treatment table, and they include the likes of Hector Bellerin, Nacho Monreal, and Rob Holding. Although Arsenal welcomed back Laurent Koscielny, the aged captain is only gradually adapting to the demands of playing against top clubs in the Premier League.

The current back-line looks a mess as Emery constantly switches between playing a back three and a back four. More often than not, the former Paris-Saint Germain coach hopes to utilise his wing-backs, and thus he opts for a back three.

However, with the fear of conceding goals, the wing-backs eventually spend the majority of their time defending, and Arsenal end up playing with five defenders.

With Monreal and Koscielny already in their 30s, it is time the Gunners spend on getting a reliable defender for the long-term future. Holding's knee injury is likely to see him miss the rest of the season, and Emery has few options at the back.

There are reports stating the North London club could sign Gary Cahill on a loan for the rest of the season. The Chelsea defender is said to be keen to continue playing in the Premier League after a lack of regular game-time this season.

With spending always limited for Arsenal, it would be tough to expect any major signings in January, even though they may be required. The Gunners could be forced to make do with what they have in the squad, and eventually pull through to the summer before deciding on who to purchase.