Slot Shakes Up Liverpool Squad with Massive 11-Player Overhaul for Southampton Clash
Securing the League Cup for an unprecedented 11th time isn't Liverpool's main objective this campaign, but Arne Slot definitely possesses a roster with sufficient depth to claim the trophy while maintaining focus on their primary ambitions.
The Merseyside club reached the final in their previous attempt but fell short against Newcastle United on the decisive occasion, having defeated their forthcoming third-round adversaries during the quarterfinal stage.
Southampton have endured a challenging start to the 2025–26 Championship campaign after their demotion, and Slot has the opportunity to implement extensive squad rotation following an intensive three-match period.
Here's the potential formation the Reds might deploy for the Saints' midweek visit.
Liverpool Expected Formation vs. Southampton (4-2-3-1)
GK: Giorgi Mamardashvili—The Georgian understood his appearances would be limited when he accepted the role as Alisson's deputy, making it crucial to capitalize on every chance he receives.
RB: Jeremie Frimpong—Frimpong's campaign has been disrupted by injury concerns, but he's returned to action following the international window and might feature for approximately sixty minutes.
CB: Giovanni Leoni—The young defender earned significant praise for his Serie A performances, and Leoni could assume an important position for Liverpool this term, based on the availability of Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté. Many are eager to witness his debut.
CB: Joe Gomez—The English defender currently sits third in the pecking order, and Slot urgently requires Gomez to maintain fitness after the Marc Guéhi transfer collapsed. Unfortunately, his injury record suggests this remains challenging.
LB: Andy Robertson—The veteran fullback retains his starting position, with Milos Kerkez struggling during his early Liverpool tenure. The Hungarian featured on Saturday, potentially opening the door for Robertson's return.
CM: Wataru Endō—Liverpool's defensive midfielder won't provide the spectacular displays that Ryan Gravenberch delivers, but he'll intelligently shield an inexperienced center-back partnership.
CM: Trey Nyoni—While another youngster has captured most attention within this Liverpool roster, Nyoni possesses considerable talent in his own capacity.
RW: Federico Chiesa—Among several clutch performers for Liverpool this season, Chiesa deserves an uncommon starting opportunity in Tuesday's cup fixture.
AM: Curtis Jones—Jones delivered a composed, measured substitute appearance during Saturday's local derby, and Slot will likely reward him with a starting role against Southampton. He represents the underappreciated gem of the squad.
LW: Rio Ngumoha—The 16-year-old prodigy appears comfortable competing at elite levels, and the Anfield supporters will undoubtedly anticipate an impressive display from Rio on Tuesday evening.
ST: Alexander Isak—Hugo Ekitiké continues delivering excellent performances leading the attack for the Reds, eliminating any urgency to rush Isak's integration, who hasn't reached peak fitness but showed promise during his debut appearance. Following his substitute role at the weekend, Liverpool's record acquisition could earn his second club start.
