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.
