Liverpool's Anfield Blank: Wirtz and Iraola's Costly Struggles Against Low Blocks

Liverpool failed to register a single shot on target in their 1-0 defeat to Arsenal at Anfield, a first in Premier League home games since records began in 2003-04. Despite 52 touches in Arsenal's penalty area, Andoni Iraola's side created just one Opta-defined big chance, far below the league average of one per 10.3 box touches. The match echoed a goalless draw at the Emirates earlier in the year, where Liverpool also hit the woodwork but lacked cutting edge. Credit goes to Mikel Arteta's Arsenal for restricting opportunities, but the pattern raises concerns about Liverpool's ability to break down disciplined, deep-lying defences. With Florian Wirtz often cited as a creative solution, the data suggests a systemic issue in chance conversion rather than just individual brilliance. Iraola must now find tactical answers to unpick low blocks if Liverpool are to sustain a title challenge.