Arsenal and Liverpool early front-runners ahead of Premier League international break

As the Premier League pauses for the international break, two giants, Arsenal and Liverpool, have emerged as early front-runners, setting the tone for what promises to be a thrilling title race. After seven matches, both sides have shown flashes of brilliance, moments of frustration, and plenty of reasons for their fans to dream.

Arsenal flying high again

LONDON, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 04: Declan Rice of Arsenal lines up on the pitch with teammates prior to the Premier League match between Arsenal and West Ham United at Emirates Stadium on October 04, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

Mikel Arteta’s men are looking like a team on a mission. After seven games, Arsenal have collected 16 points, sitting comfortably among the top three. The Gunners have been sharp, disciplined, and at times, ruthless in front of goal.

What’s made them special so far is their balance: a defence that looks well-organised and an attack that can strike from anywhere. Bukayo Saka continues to shine, while Martin Ødegaard’s creativity has been the heartbeat of Arsenal’s build-up play. Even when injuries hit, Arsenal have found ways to grind out results, a sign of a side maturing with every match.

Their home form has been rocking solid, and although they’ve stumbled once away, it’s clear this Arsenal is stronger mentally than in previous seasons. There’s a quiet belief

growing in north London and it’s beginning to feel like last season’s title charge was only the beginning.

Arteta winning his 300th game in charge

LONDON, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 04: Mikel Arteta, Manager of Arsenal, looks on after the team's victory in the Premier League match between Arsenal and West Ham United at Emirates Stadium on October 04, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

Mikel Arteta said he’s very proud: “It is a big number for this football club. I want to thank everybody, especially my coaching staff who have been with me since day one. Without them, it's impossible, first of all, to do the job and secondly to enjoy it, so I know that I have the best people in the world around me. Also, the players and the staff that have been with me since day one, supporting, helping me to be a better coach, to learn from them, to inspire me and to enjoy the good moments as well. I wanted to celebrate it with a win, I've

got it. Now we have an international break to enjoy it and use the time as well to prepare because what's coming before the next break is going to be really difficult again”.

Liverpool under Arne Slot finding their rhythm

Over at Anfield, Arne Slot is writing a new chapter for Liverpool. After seven games, the Reds have five wins and two losses, both defeats coming against Crystal Palace and Chelsea. There’ve been no draws, no sitting back, just attacking intent and plenty of ambition.

Under Slot, Liverpool’s game is evolving. The pressing remains, but there’s more patience in possession and more variety in attack. His arrival has brought fresh ideas and renewed belief among players and supporters alike.

Leading from the back is captain Virgil van Dijk, who continues to set the standard with his calm defending and authority. He’s been vital in guiding a squad adjusting to a new manager’s demands. Van Dijk is confident Arne Slot’s men can rediscover the levels that gained them the title last term but stressed that turnaround can only be achieved through work, focus and togetherness.

“I’ve been at the club for such a long time, there have been many difficult situations, and we got out of them. It’s not for everyone to just accept it and move on, but the only thing we can do is focus on the next opportunity we have and work on it.

“Obviously now everyone goes to different countries, and everyone has the responsibility to try to stay fit and do well.

“But when we come back, we have a very big game against Manchester United, where I am already very much looking forward to it. It’s an opportunity again to show what we have been showing last year throughout the whole season.”

Further up field, Alexander Isak, one of the club’s standout signings, is beginning to find his feet. The striker’s clever movement and clinical finishing have given Liverpool a new dimension in attack – something fans have been craving. And of course, Mohamed Salah remains Liverpool’s go-to man in key moments, showing that even amid change, some things stay constant.

While the two losses have exposed moments of transition, the progress under Slot is clear. The Reds are rediscovering their spark, and if consistency follows, they’ll be right in the mix for the title.

Both Arsenal and Liverpool have impressed – Arsenal with their structure and composure, Liverpool with their freshness and energy. Tottenham’s resurgence adds another twist to a growing title race, while City’s consistency ensures no one can relax. Each team has shown why they belong near the top, and as the season unfolds, their battle for momentum could shape the story of this campaign.

What’s next after the break

When club football returns, Arsenal will look to extend their unbeaten home run, while Liverpool aim to tighten defensively and build on Slot’s promising start. Tottenham will hope to maintain their rhythm, and City, as always, will look to remind everyone why they’re champions.

The international break offers all sides a breather, and a chance to reset before another intense stretch of fixtures.

Seven matches in, Arsenal look composed and ready for a long fight. Liverpool, under Slot management, are full of intent, learning, adapting, and showing glimpses of a team that could challenge anyone. Tottenham are rising fast, and City remain the team to beat.

If these early weeks are anything to go by, the season ahead promises thrilling football – and perhaps, another classic race at the top.

New era. New energy. Same ambition.

Arsenal and Liverpool are setting the pace early, and the title race might just be heating up already.

Catch all the live action on Showmax Premier League!