When Liverpool and Arsenal meet at Anfield, the mood will inevitably be high. The latest 2-2 draw is no exception, but for the football itself, it will be remembered as atmosphere and controversy. Trev Downey, who hosted on the Anfield Index Podcast, opened up a vibrant afternoon with Hari Sethi and Jim Boardman, Liverpool was temporarily dazzled, Arsenal fought back, and the appearance of Trent Alexander-Arnold inspired more turbulent than solidarity.

Talent and familiar frustration in the first half of the year

The first 45 minutes show why Liverpool was elected champion. The smooth offensive moves and keen game made Harry recall the "Sturic Cotini game against Arsenal" that Liverpool tore through his opponent. Indeed, the Reds seemed ready to win the statement.

Luis Díaz and Cody Gakpo are often under scrutiny, strengthened. Gakpo was criticized as "scratch" early on and ended with a clever header after the "perfect" Andy Robertson Cross. Then Díaz added a second time, converting a sleek move involving Dominik Szoboszlai and Mohamed Salah. Harry praised the move: "Only classic Liverpool. Flowing football. Inch perfect ball from Mo."

But Liverpool failed to make further use of it. "We should have gone up 4-0," Jim sighed. "Sometimes it feels like an exhibition - Arsenal doesn't want to be there."

Second half downturn and Arsenal's response

There are different Liverpools in the second half. “We forgot we had to run,” Harry observed bluntly. "Slots said before, we started hanging out like we were in a pool with cocktails." Arsenal swooped. Gabriel Martinelli cut the deficit in half a bad defensive situation, Hari noted: "Connor Bradley is not nervous enough. It's too easy for us to allow crosses."

How belated the Arsenal battle was, winning parity through Martin Ødegaard's efforts, and Mourinho nodded on the rebound. "The sloppy goal," Harry admitted. “The kind we don’t admit when we are locked.”

Statistically, Arsenal opposes it: owning 57% of its owners and 14 shots to Liverpool. But the scoring line hardly tells the story.

Trent: Talent, turmoil and dissatisfied roar

Much of the post-match talk wasn't focused on the goal, but on Trent Alexander-Arnold, whose upcoming Real Madrid move continues to divide supporters. The reaction introduced at the 64th minute was very harsh. "It's a huge mistake from Arne Slot," Harry said. "He hasn't read the room. The booing hasn't stopped. It's just upgrading."

Trev vividly portrays the scene: "Diaz tried to lift the crowd, but every touch of Trent was filled with anger. It wasn't Liverpool." Jim added: "It has nothing to do with punishment. But playing him is unnecessary. He is leaving. It disperses the team.

Slot's post-match defense - "Trent almost won our game with three great passes" - many were hollow. “It has nothing to do with ability,” Harry said. “It’s about timing, sensitivity and understanding the crowd.”

Champion, yes - but still chasing a perfect ending

Despite the draw, Liverpool still cleared 15 points and has been crowned the Premier League champion. However, fans and players are eager for fashion. “I hope MO breaks the record,” Trev said. "I hope the team scores 90 points. That won't go away."

There is also a sense of transition. With Darwin Núñez appearing to be out and gakpo is still under the microscope, summer reconstruction is already under reconstruction. "You understand why the club entered the market," Harry pointed out. "Not only is the ninth, but maybe the left-wing berth."

Looking ahead, fans hope that the last game - Garnest Brighton and Crystal Palace - is filled with joy and unity without further wild drama. As Trev summed up: "We are champions. Let's end like champions."