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Tag: Milos Kerkez

Kerkez to be benched? Liverpool Predicted Lineup vs Atlético Madrid

Liverpool return to European action this week as Atlético Madrid travel to Anfield for the opening match of the Champions League group stage.

The Reds have started the Premier League campaign in perfect fashion, but much of their success has come through dramatic late winners, including Mohamed Salah’s stoppage-time penalty against Burnley.

Arne Slot will now look to translate that domestic momentum into Europe while managing his squad carefully.

One key decision for Slot concerns Milos Kerkez. The left-back was booked for simulation at Burnley and was substituted early to avoid the risk of a red card.

Andy Robertson could start in his place against Atlético to provide defensive security, while Alexander Isak might be selected to be part of the matchday squad for the first time as a Liverpool player.

Here is your predicted Liverpool vs Atlético Madrid lineup.

Team News

Liverpool have relatively few injury concerns, but Slot must manage his squad carefully. Curtis Jones remains a doubt, and Stefan Bajčetić continues to recover from long-term hamstring surgery. Alexis Mac Allister is expected to be available after being forced off at Burnley.

Milos Kerkez is likely to be benched following his booking, with Andy Robertson returning at left-back to provide experience and stability.

Alexander Isak is also likely to feature, with Slot noting that the week-long build-up of three games in seven days provides the best lead-up for him to be available against Atlético Madrid.

Atlético Madrid, on the other hand, arrive at Anfield with several key players doubtful. Julián Álvarez (knee) and David Hancko (ankle) were both forced off in the recent win over Villarreal, while Robin Le Normand (back) and Nico González (cramp) are also uncertain.

Long-term absentees José María Giménez, Thiago Almada, and Álex Baena remain sidelined, which could force Diego Simeone into reshuffles in both defence and attack. Despite these challenges, the visitors will be looking for revenge after defeats in their last two meetings with Liverpool.

Liverpool Possible Starting Lineup

Alisson; Frimpong, Konaté, Van Dijk, Robertson; Gravenberch, Szoboszlai; Salah, Wirtz, Gakpo; Ekitike

Atlético Madrid Possible Starting Lineup

Oblak; Llorente, Le Normand, Lenglet, Ruggeri; Simeone, Barrios, Koke, Gallagher; Griezmann, Sorloth

Prediction

Given Liverpool’s home dominance in Europe and Atlético’s current injury struggles, the Reds are expected to control the match.

Slot’s men should break through with pace and attacking depth, while the visitors will struggle to contain the front three. Predicted score: Liverpool 3–1 Atlético Madrid.

September 16, 2025
Burnley 0-1 Liverpool: Salah’s Penalty Seals Late Win

Liverpool made it four wins from four this season with a dramatic 1-0 victory over Burnley at Turf Moor, thanks to a stoppage-time penalty from Mo Salah.

The match was far from straightforward. Burnley were organised and resolute, keeping Liverpool’s creative players quiet for most of the game. Despite dominating possession over 80% in the first half, the Reds struggled to create clear chances against Scott Parker’s packed defence.

Robertson, coming on for the booked Milos Kerkez, added energy down the left, while Gravenberch controlled the midfield. Szoboszlai and Gakpo had efforts blocked, and Dubravka made a few important saves to keep the game level.

Liverpool increased the tempo after the break, introducing Chiesa, Ngumoha, and Frimpong. Burnley continued to defend heroically, and moments like Dubravka’s save from Frimpong highlighted the difficulty Liverpool faced. The visitors finally gained the upper hand when Lesley Ugochukwu was shown a second yellow card in the 84th minute, reducing Burnley to ten men.

Burnley 0-1 Liverpool: Salah’s Penalty Seals Late Win

The decisive moment came deep into stoppage time. Frimpong’s cross struck Hannibal Mejbri’s outstretched arm on the edge of the area, and Michael Oliver pointed to the spot. Salah stepped up and calmly converted, giving Liverpool yet another last-minute victory.

Burnley can be proud of their disciplined performance, but Liverpool’s patience, persistence, and ability to deliver in the dying minutes once again secured all three points.

September 14, 2025
Liverpool Given 28% Chance to Retain Premier League Title

After a dominant campaign last season that saw Liverpool clinch their 20th English top-flight title with four games to spare, expectations are sky-high for Arne Slot and his resurgent Reds heading into the 2025-26 season.

According to Opta’s latest supercomputer projections, Liverpool have been given a 28.5% chance of retaining their Premier League crown, a dramatic jump from the 5.1% they were handed this time last year.

The projections were part of Opta Analyst’s Premier League season preview, which simulated the season 10,000 times to determine likely outcomes.

While the numbers suggest a wide-open race, Liverpool emerge as favourites, even amid significant changes on and off the pitch.

Arne Slot’s first season at Anfield defied the odds, with many tipping Liverpool to be on the outside of the title picture. Instead, they stormed to glory in style. Now, as Slot enters his second season, his project is beginning to take full shape, albeit with some emotional and structural reshuffling.

The team will head into the new campaign without Luis Díaz, who has joined Bayern Munich, and Trent Alexander-Arnold, whose exit leaves a notable void in leadership and creativity. More painfully, the tragic passing of Diogo Jota has cast a long shadow over the club, emotionally uniting the dressing room but also serving as a somber reminder of life beyond football.

Yet, Liverpool have also been active and ambitious in the market. Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitiké, Milos Kerkez, and Jeremie Frimpong all arrive with clear intent to refresh and strengthen an already formidable squad. The supercomputer clearly believes the pieces are in place for another serious run at the title.

Liverpool’s Challengers for the Crown

Arsenal, meanwhile, continue to flirt with glory without quite grasping it and three consecutive second-place finishes under Mikel Arteta have raised expectations and frustrations in equal measure.

But this summer, the Gunners made a statement signing in Viktor Gyökeres, a prolific striker who could be the missing link in their attack and the supercomputer seems optimistic about Arsenal’s chances. It has assigned them a 24.3% likelihood of winning the league, nearly double last season’s odds.

Unfortunately, however, it also predicts that their most likely finish is once again second place so for Arteta and his players, the message is clear: it’s now or never.

Manchester City were expected to make history last season by winning a fifth consecutive title, but instead, they endured a rare stumble, hampered by a long-term knee injury to Rodri, whose absence exposed structural weaknesses in midfield and now with Rodri fit and Pep Guardiola still at the helm, City remain a dangerous force, yet the supercomputer projects only an 18.8% chance of City reclaiming the crown, far less than the 82.2% it gave them before last season.

Chelsea enter the season buoyed by their FIFA Club World Cup victory, with manager Enzo Maresca building a youthful but vibrant squad and Cole Palmer, Moises Caicedo, Enzo Fernandez, and others will be asked to lead the charge as the Blues look to win their first league title since 2017, but the supercomputer gives them a realistic 8.8% shot, with fourth place once again predicted as their most likely outcome.

In contrast, Manchester United (0.6%) and Tottenham Hotspur (0.3%) are almost completely ruled out of contention and after finishing in the bottom half last season, both clubs are seen as long-term projects rather than immediate title challengers while Aston Villa and Newcastle United each received 5.1% odds to pull off a surprise win, suggesting they’re viewed as dark horses but not quite among the elite.

August 6, 2025
Milos Kerkez Explains Viral Diving Header Tackle vs Preston

Milos Kerkez may have only just made his Liverpool debut, but the Hungarian left-back is already showing why the club spent £40m to bring him in from Bournemouth.

The 21-year-old featured in the second half of Liverpool’s 3-1 win over Preston North End, the team’s opening pre-season game of the summer. It was an emotional day following the tragic passing of Diogo Jota, but Kerkez’s fearless performance stood out.

One moment in particular drew attention when he attempted to win the ball in the final third by diving head-first while on the floor.

Milos Kerkez Explains Viral Diving Header In Liverpool Debut

Speaking to Liverpoolfc.com during the club’s tour in Hong Kong, Kerkez laughed about the incident and explained how it happened.

Yeah, I saw that! It was a foul even before that I think, but then I saw the referee was not giving anything, he said.

The ball was a little bit far away, I lost balance and I had to jump somewhere. I was closer to jump with my head! I got the ball. I think it was a foul.

It’s me, you know, it’s how I play – I always give 100 per cent.”

Kerkez also spoke about what it means to represent Liverpool and how he’s settling in.

When you play for Liverpool, you have to always give everything on the pitch for the fans and for the badge. That’s what I want to do.

Of course I know it is one of the biggest clubs in the world, and when I cam,e it just surprised me also how professional everything is and how high a level everything is.

You really have to work hard every single day to compete. It’s the highest level. That surprised m,e but it’s also what I was looking for, so I’m really happy.

Liverpool will continue their pre-season on Saturday against AC Milan in Hong Kong. Kerkez is expected to play again as he works on his sharpness ahead of the new season.

July 25, 2025
Hugo Ekitike Joins Liverpool In £79m Deal From Eintracht Frankfurt

Liverpool have confirmed the signing of French striker Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt in a deal worth up to £79 million.

The 23-year-old completed his medical in London on Tuesday and signed a six-year contract that runs until 2031. He will now fly to Hong Kong to link up with his new teammates on Liverpool’s pre-season tour of Asia.

The Reds will pay £69 million up front, with a further £10 million in performance-based add-ons agreed with Frankfurt. It makes Ekitike the third-most expensive player in Liverpool’s history.

Ekitike scored 22 goals and provided 12 assists in all competitions for Frankfurt last season and was named in the Bundesliga Team of the Season. He joins Liverpool after just 18 months in Germany, having initially moved from Paris Saint-Germain on loan.

Born in Reims, Ekitike started his career with Stade de Reims before earning a move to PSG, where he made 33 appearances and won a Ligue 1 title. He stands 6ft 3in tall, is right-footed, and has already represented France at U21 level.

His arrival at Anfield is seen as a major statement from Liverpool under Arne Slot, who has now brought in seven new players this summer, including Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, Milos Kerkez, Giorgi Mamardashvili, Armin Pecsi, and Freddie Woodman. The club’s total summer spending has reached £295 million.

Ekitike turned down offers from Newcastle United and Manchester United to join Liverpool, convinced by Slot’s project and plans for how he would fit into the system. The striker is expected to play a key role as the central forward, especially off the ball, an area Slot sees as essential.

The club have not confirmed Ekitike’s official squad number yet, but like other new signings, he will wear a temporary number during pre-season.

Liverpool’s next match is against AC Milan in Hong Kong on Saturday before facing Yokohama F. Marinos in Japan next Wednesday.

July 23, 2025
When Hugo Ekitike Will Undergo Liverpool Medical

Hugo Ekitike is expected to undergo his Liverpool medical in the coming days, with the French striker set to finalise his move after a £69 million agreement with Eintracht Frankfurt.

According to reports from The Athletic and other reliable sources, Liverpool will pay £69 million up front, with a further £10 million in performance-based add-ons. The total package could rise to £79 million, making Ekitike one of the most expensive signings in the club’s history.

The 22-year-old has already agreed personal terms on a six-year deal and is due to travel to Merseyside soon for his medical and media duties before linking up with Arne Slot’s squad in Asia.

When Hugo Ekitike Will Undergo Liverpool Medical

Liverpool’s pre-season tour is already underway, with the squad landing in Hong Kong on Monday ahead of matches against AC Milan and Yokohama F. Marinos. While Ekitike is not expected to feature against Milan, he could make his debut next week in Japan.

The club’s medical staff have reportedly remained in the UK to carry out the tests before the player flies out to Asia. Ekitike is expected to travel once all formalities are completed, according to reports.

The French international scored 15 goals in 33 Bundesliga games last season and will become Liverpool’s seventh summer signing, joining Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, Milos Kerkez, Armin Pesci, Giorgi Mamardashvili, and Freddie Woodman.

An official club announcement could arrive as early as Tuesday or Wednesday.

July 21, 2025
5 Likely Replacements For Liverpool Vice Captain

Liverpool need a new vice-captain this summer following the departure of Trent Alexander-Arnold to Real Madrid. His exit creates a significant gap in the leadership group, and the role of supporting Virgil van Dijk on and off the pitch now hangs in the balance.

The Liverpool vice captain role demands for presence, consistency, and a deep understanding of the club’s identity.

With several experienced players and emerging leaders available, Arne Slot faces a key early decision in his reign. Should the armband go to a seasoned veteran or a younger figure who represents Liverpool’s long-term future?

Here are five likely contenders for the Liverpool Vice Captain role.

5 Likely Replacements For Liverpool Vice Captain

1. Alexis Mac Allister – The Long-Term Option for Liverpool

If Slot is thinking about continuity and future stability, Alexis Mac Allister makes a strong case for the Liverpool vice captain role. Despite being at the club for under three years, the Argentine midfielder has become one of the most consistent and composed performers in the squad.

Mac Allister brings a winning mentality, having lifted the World Cup with Argentina, and he fits seamlessly into the club’s high standards established under Jürgen Klopp. He might not yet carry the same status as others in the leadership group, but his influence is growing, both on and off the pitch.

While Salah, Alisson, and Robertson have more time under their belts, Mac Allister stands out as a player who could be a fixture at the heart of the team for years to come. Promoting him now would send a clear message that Liverpool are building around a new core.

2. Mohamed Salah – The Senior Statesman

Mohamed Salah is arguably the most obvious choice for Liverpool vice captain. Having dedicated his prime years to the club, his leadership has matured with time. Though he doesn’t wear the armband officially, he has taken on that responsibility through his performances and attitude.

Salah sets the tone for the team through his professionalism, fitness, and relentless drive. Younger players admire him, and he is a vocal figure both during matches and behind closed doors. His commitment to Liverpool’s cause is unquestionable, and the timing feels right for him to step formally into a leadership role.

Van Dijk and Salah as captain and vice-captain would make a formidable leadership duo, combining experience, presence, and respect.

3. Alisson Becker – The Trusted Voice in the Dressing Room

While Alisson may not be the loudest figure in the Liverpool dressing room, he commands enormous respect. When he speaks, everyone listens.

The Brazilian goalkeeper is admired for his calm authority, consistency, and influence especially among the South American players. He has helped shape the club’s culture quietly but effectively and remains one of the best in the world in his position.

With his contract potentially running until 2027, Alisson’s continued presence in the starting lineup makes him a logical candidate for promotion within the leadership group. Giving him the Liverpool vice captain role would reflect his quiet influence and the trust he already enjoys among players and staff.

4. Andy Robertson – The Passionate Veteran (With a Caveat)

Andy Robertson is already part of the leadership group and has long been admired for his energy, competitiveness, and passion. He leads by example and shares a strong bond with Van Dijk on the pitch.

However, what might work against Robertson is the growing competition at left-back. The recent signing of Milos Kerkez suggests Slot is planning for the future in that position. If Robertson’s game time begins to reduce, it could complicate his candidacy for vice-captain.

Still, if trusted with the role, Robertson would bring intensity and accountability, two traits any team would welcome in a leader.

5. Curtis Jones – The Wildcard and Boyhood Red

Curtis Jones may be the surprise name on this list, but he has already written himself into the club’s history books. At just 19 years and 5 days old, he became the youngest player ever to captain Liverpool’s senior side during an FA Cup clash with Shrewsbury Town.

A local lad through and through, Jones understands what the club means to the city and its people. Over the past two seasons, he has matured into a more disciplined and tactical midfielder, with his role expanding under both Klopp and, more recently, Slot.

While he may not yet be the first name most fans consider for the Liverpool vice captain role, his leadership potential is evident. Slot could view him as a symbolic and strategic pick, one that honours the club’s identity while nurturing the next generation of leaders.

July 17, 2025
Liverpool Reveal Temporary Shirt Numbers for New Signings
Liverpool have confirmed temporary shirt numbers for their six new signings ahead of today’s pre-season friendly against Preston North End at Deepdale.

The Reds return to action for the first time since winning the Premier League title and also since the tragic passing of forward Diogo Jota, who died in a car accident earlier this month with his brother, André Silva.

While the full squad numbers for the 2025/26 season are yet to be finalised, the club has announced pre-season jerseys for the new additions, who are all expected to feature during the summer fixtures.

Here’s how the new signings will be numbered during pre-season:
- Giorgi Mamardashvili – No.55
- Freddie Woodman – No.56
- Milos Kerkez – No.57
- Florian Wirtz – No.58
- Jeremie Frimpong – No.59
- Armin Pecsi – No.60
German playmaker Florian Wirtz is the most high-profile arrival, joining in a record-breaking transfer from Bayer Leverkusen. He’s joined by right-back Frimpong, also from Leverkusen, and Kerkez from Bournemouth. The three goalkeepers added to the squad are Mamardashvili, Woodman and young Pecsi.

All six players are expected to play a part in Liverpool’s summer schedule, which continues with an Asia tour before returning home to face Crystal Palace in the Community Shield.

Meanwhile, Liverpool have retired Jota’s No.20 shirt across all levels of the club in honour of the Portugal international, a decision Arne Slot described as a lasting gesture of love and respect.

“We will always carry him with us in our hearts, in our thoughts, wherever we go,” said Slot. “Maybe especially in difficult moments. To retire his shirt is the one thing we could, should, and have done.”

Today’s match against Preston will include tributes to Jota and his brother before kick-off, with fans expected to be seated by 2:45 pm BST for the remembrance ceremony.
July 13, 2025
Liverpool Pre-Season 2025-26: Fixtures, Tours, Squad & How to Watch
Liverpool Pre-Season 2025-26 is officially underway as Arne Slot and his team prepare for a packed summer schedule of six matches across four weeks.

After lifting the Premier League title in his first season at Anfield, Slot is now tasked with defending the crown and mounting a serious challenge in the Champions League. But his second season has started in difficult circumstances, with the tragic death of Diogo Jota and his brother André in a car accident in Spain.

The Reds have carefully planned their return, and after holding discussions with players, staff, and Preston North End, it has been agreed that their first Liverpool Pre-Season 2025-26 game will go ahead as scheduled. The friendly at Deepdale on Sunday, July 13, will include tributes to Jota, Liverpool’s No. 20, who was preparing to rejoin the team before the tragedy.

Liverpool Pre-Season 2025-26 – Fixtures & Tour Details

Liverpool will play six matches before the new league campaign begins. After facing Preston, the squad will return to the AXA Training Centre for more training before heading to Asia on July 21. There, they will take on AC Milan in Hong Kong and Yokohama F. Marinos in Japan as part of a short commercial tour.

They will then return to Anfield for a rare double-header against Spanish side Athletic Club on August 4, with two games on the same day, one at 5 pm and the other at 8 pm. These matches could be the first time fans see Liverpool in their new Adidas kits, with the deal officially starting on August 1. Until then, the team is expected to wear last season’s Nike kits.

Liverpool’s final pre-season game in the Liverpool Pre-Season 2025-26 schedule is against FA Cup winners Crystal Palace in the Community Shield at Wembley on August 10. Although it is a competitive match, it also serves as the final warm-up before the Premier League season begins

Full Pre-Season Schedule
- July 13: Preston North End (A)
- July 21: Squad flies to Asia
- July 26: AC Milan (Hong Kong)
- July 30: Yokohama F. Marinos (Japan)
- August 4: Athletic Club (Anfield – 5 pm & 8 pm)
- August 10: Crystal Palace (Community Shield – Wembley)
- August 15: Bournemouth (Premier League opener – Anfield)
Transfers & Squad Changes

It’s been a summer of big changes at Anfield. The most high-profile exit so far is Trent Alexander-Arnold, who has joined Real Madrid in a deal completed before the Club World Cup. Caoimhin Kelleher has left for Brentford, and Jarell Quansah has moved to Bayer Leverkusen.

On the incoming side, Liverpool have moved quickly to fill gaps. Jeremie Frimpong has arrived to take Trent’s place at right-back, and Milos Kerkez strengthens the left side of defence. But the biggest signing is undoubtedly Florian Wirtz, who joins from Leverkusen after a stunning season under Xabi Alonso with 16 goals and 14 assists. His arrival is a Premier League record signing.

There are still questions around Darwin Nunez, who has interest from Serie A, and Luis Diaz, who has spoken about his future amid links to Barcelona. More outgoings are expected in the coming weeks.

How To Watch Liverpool’s Pre-Season Games

Liverpool’s pre-season games will be shown live on All Red Video, the club’s official video platform (formerly LFCTV GO).

The first match against Preston on Sunday, July 13, kicks off at 3 pm BST, with live coverage from 2:15 pm. It will also be available on LFCTV via Sky and Virgin in the UK.

All other pre-season games will also be streamed live on All Red Video. New members can sign up with the first month free and cancel anytime.

With a tough title defence ahead, plus a return to the Champions League, Slot will want to use pre-season to sharpen his squad and settle the new signings. While the mood has been understandably heavy since Jota’s passing, the club remains united and determined to move forward in his honour.

The Premier League season begins on Friday, August 15, when Liverpool hosts Bournemouth at Anfield under the lights.
July 13, 2025
Henderson to Be Present If Liverpool Clinch 21st League Title

Former Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson could return to Anfield to witness his old club lift a record-extending 21st league title.

New manager Arne Slot and his squad have officially kicked off their pre-season training this week, albeit later than scheduled and under the cloud of tragedy following the untimely passing of forward Diogo Jota.

The Portuguese international’s death has cast a shadow over the preparations, but the club remains focused on the campaign ahead.

Slot, who sensationally led Liverpool to their 20th league title in his debut season, is already making waves in the transfer market. The Dutchman has strengthened the squad with the high-profile signings of Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, and Milos Kerkez, three dynamic players who may feature as early as tomorrow in a pre-season clash against Preston.

With Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester City hot on their heels, Liverpool will be looking to defend their crown and claim their 21st league title, further solidifying their status as English football royalty.

The club’s long-serving former captain, who recently agreed to join Brentford following a brief stint at Ajax, where his contract was mutually terminated, could be in attendance at Anfield if Liverpool are on course to lift the trophy.

Liverpool’s final home match of the season is against Brentford on Sunday, May 24th (4pm), setting the stage for a potential reunion between Henderson and the Liverpool faithful.

If the Reds have already wrapped up the title by then, as they did last season, Brentford could be lining up for a guard of honour, with Henderson standing on the opposite side of the ceremony for a club he spent over a decade representing.

Between 2011 and 2023, Henderson made 492 appearances, scoring 33 goals for Liverpool. His honours include: Premier League title (2019–20), Champions League (2019), FIFA Club World Cup (2019), FA Cup (2022), League Cup (2012, 2022) and UEFA Super Cup (2019).

July 12, 2025