Liverpool Set to Shake Up Starting XI as Atletico Madrid Clash Kicks Off European Campaign
Liverpool make their return to Champions League competition this Wednesday as they welcome Atlético Madrid for their inaugural league phase match of the season.
The Merseyside club has secured wins in all four Premier League fixtures this campaign, though they've needed dramatic late goals to prevent dropped points against Bournemouth, Newcastle United, Arsenal and Burnley. The defending champions now shift focus to their first European clash since March.
Atlético will present a formidable test despite their inconsistent season start, with Diego Simeone's squad famous for their tactical cunning and capacity to excel in challenging away atmospheres.
Arne Slot needs a commanding display from his players but faces multiple team selection dilemmas before Atlético's arrival.
Liverpool Predicted Lineup vs. Atlético Madrid (4-2-3-1)
GK: Alisson—Alisson remained largely inactive at Turf Moor on Sunday, recording his second consecutive clean sheet without needing to make a single save. Atlético will undoubtedly provide him with much more work.
RB: Jeremie Frimpong—Frimpong delivered an immediate impact as a substitute following his injury comeback at the weekend. The Dutch defender's offensive threat from the right flank proved decisive against Burnley and should trouble Atlético similarly.
CB: Ibrahima Konaté—The French defender might be representing Atlético's city rivals next summer as Real Madrid speculation continues, but currently remains guaranteed his place in a Liverpool backline short on central defensive options.
CB: Virgil van Dijk—Liverpool's captain will welcome Julián Alvarez's absence from Wednesday's fixture, though he must still neutralize Antoine Griezmann and Alexander Sørloth at Anfield.
LB: Andy Robertson—Milos Kerkez was withdrawn before the interval against Burnley after nearly earning a red card, making Robertson the likely replacement against Atlético for his first start this season.
DM: Ryan Gravenberch—The 23-year-old delivered another outstanding performance against Burnley and will be tasked with helping Liverpool control the midfield contest against veteran Koke and energetic Pablo Barrios.
DM: Dominik Szoboszlai—Alexis Mac Allister remains available despite suffering a heavy challenge on Sunday that forced his half-time withdrawal, though Szoboszlai may get the nod to give the Argentine additional recovery time.
RW: Mohamed Salah—Liverpool's Egyptian superstar rescued them with a crucial late penalty on Sunday, but the attacker was otherwise underwhelming at Turf Moor. He continues to fall short of last season's exceptional standards.
AM: Florian Wirtz—Another player underperforming expectations is Wirtz, who hasn't found his rhythm since his £116 million transfer from Bayer Leverkusen. He'll be eager to break his goal and assist drought for the Reds in midweek.
LW: Cody Gakpo—The Liverpool attacker has excelled since establishing himself as a regular starter on the left wing, contributing one goal and three assists across club and international duty this season.
ST: Hugo Ekitiké—Slot has indicated that Alexander Isak will likely debut on Wednesday but can only play up to 45 minutes maximum. Hugo Ekitiké should get the starting role, with the Swedish striker coming off the bench to an enthusiastic welcome.
