Liverpool manager Arne Slot has made two changes to his starting XI for this afternoon’s Carabao Cup final against Newcastle at Wembley, with Caoimhin Kelleher taking his place in goal and Jarell Quansah stepping in to replace the injured Trent Alexander-Arnold.
Kelleher, a standout performer in cup competitions, gets the nod over Alisson Becker. Quansah’s inclusion at right-back is an enforced change, with Alexander-Arnold unavailable due to injury. The young defender will face a stern test against Newcastle’s attack but has shown composure and maturity in previous appearances.
The defensive unit is anchored by the experienced pairing of Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate, who will be crucial in marshaling Liverpool’s backline. Andy Robertson, as ever, provides relentless energy and width on the left flank.
In midfield, Dominik Szoboszlai, Alexis Mac Allister, and Ryan Gravenberch form a dynamic trio tasked with controlling the game’s tempo. Their combination of creativity, defensive work rate, and technical ability will be vital in breaking down Newcastle’s midfield and creating opportunities for the forwards.
Up front, Mohamed Salah spearheads the attack, flanked by the lively duo of Luis Diaz and Diogo Jota. Their pace, movement, and clinical edge will be essential in unlocking Newcastle’s defense and delivering silverware for the Reds.
On the bench, Slot has a strong set of options, including Darwin Nunez, Cody Gakpo, and Harvey Elliott, who could all play pivotal roles if called upon in the second half.
Confirmed Liverpool Lineup: Kelleher, Quansah, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson, Szoboszlai, Mac Allister, Gravenberch, Salah, Diaz, Jota.
Subs: Alisson, Endo, Nunez, Chiesa, Jones, Gakpo, Elliott, Tsimikas, McConnell.
