December to January is traditionally one of the toughest periods for football clubs in England.
The two-month period sees the fixture list even more congested than normal - with squads from the Premier League being put to the ultimate test.
However, this time, it's even more difficult for clubs. The Covid-19 pandemic is ongoing and with the Omicron variant of the virus becoming even more prominent in recent weeks, there have been a number of fixtures postponed due to outbreaks in squads.
Arsenal have had an outbreak of Covid at the club, with Albert Sambi Lokonga, Pablo Mari and Calum Chambers all confirmed to have tested positive for the virus.
Between now and the end of the year, the Gunners have two Premier League matches - with a trip to Norwich City on Boxing Day and then a home clash with Wolves just two days after.
Once the New Year starts, there is no respite for Mikel Arteta and his squad, with the January fixture list throwing even more challenges in Arsenal's direction.
Now, the dates for the two legs of their Carabao Cup semi-final with Liverpool have been confirmed.
The first-leg, that will take place at the Emirates Stadium, is set to be played on Thursday, January 6, before the return match at Anfield a week later on Thursday, January 13 - with both ties kicking off at 7:45pm (UK time).
So, with all this being said, football.london takes a look at Arsenal's fixture list in January as a new set of challenges present the Gunners.
Manchester City (H) - Premier League - January 1, 12:30pm K.O
Liverpool (H) - Carabao Cup - January 6, 7:45pm K.O
Nottingham Forest (A) - FA Cup - January 9, 5:10pm K.O
Liverpool (A) - Carabao Cup - January 13, 7:45pm K.O
Tottenham (A) - Premier League - January 16, 4:30pm K.O
Burnley (H) - Premier League - January 22, 3pm K.O
