The spotlight is firmly on Liverpool’s attack ahead of a huge Champions League showdown with Atlético Madrid at Anfield, and one selection debate has fans talking: should Cody Gakpo keep his place ahead of blockbuster signing Bradley Barcola? 👀🔴
Gakpo has started the new campaign in electric fashion. The Dutch forward has registered one goal and three assists in Liverpool’s opening three Premier League matches, including two assists for Alexander Isak in the 2-0 victory over Ipswich Town. His link-up with the Swedish striker has already given Liverpool supporters plenty to be excited about. 🔥⚽
That form has sparked the argument that Gakpo simply cannot be dropped.
Even the arrival of Barcola, who cost Liverpool around £123 million, has not changed that feeling. The French winger made his Liverpool debut from the bench against Ipswich, and Iraola has confirmed that he is ready for more minutes against Atlético. However, the manager has also acknowledged that Barcola missed the normal pre-season workload, meaning his minutes may still need to be managed carefully. 👀
And then there is Ronald Araújo. 💪🇺🇾
His versatility and experience could be priceless against an Atlético side known for its intensity, physical battles and tactical discipline. Araújo has already been trusted at right-back this season, while several predicted line-ups have him starting against Diego Simeone’s men.
But there is one major twist to the Gakpo debate…
🚨 GAKPO’S FITNESS HAS BECOME A HUGE QUESTION MARK!
The Liverpool forward missed training ahead of the Atlético match after experiencing muscular tightness. That immediately raised doubts about whether he would be fit enough to start, and it could hand Barcola the perfect opportunity to make his first Liverpool start.
Suddenly, what looked like a tactical decision could become a medical one. 😳
Barcola now has a genuine chance to step onto the biggest stage and show exactly why Liverpool pushed so hard to bring him to Anfield. His explosive pace, direct running and ability to attack defenders could give Atlético a completely different problem to solve. ⚡🇫🇷
And Liverpool will certainly need attacking firepower.
The Reds enter the Champions League opener after finally getting their first Premier League win under Iraola, beating Ipswich 2-0 with Isak scoring twice. Meanwhile, Atlético arrive after a bruising 3-0 defeat to Athletic Club.
Liverpool also have recent history on their side. The Reds beat Atlético 3-2 at Anfield last season, with Virgil van Dijk scoring a dramatic late winner. 🔥🏟️
Yet Simeone’s Atlético are never an opponent to underestimate.
This is exactly the type of European night where Liverpool’s new-look attack will be tested. Wirtz, Isak, Gakpo, Barcola and the rest of Iraola’s attacking options have the quality to cause serious damage, but Atlético’s defensive organisation and experience could make every opportunity count.
One thing is becoming increasingly clear: if Gakpo is fully fit, leaving him out would be a massive call. 😮💨
But if the muscular issue keeps him sidelined, Barcola could suddenly find himself with the perfect stage for his first Liverpool start.
And that could be the beginning of something VERY interesting at Anfield. 👀🔥
Gakpo’s form. Barcola’s £123m price tag. Araújo’s experience. Isak’s goals. Wirtz’s creativity.
Liverpool have serious weapons.
Now Atlético Madrid have to survive them. 🔴🔥⚽
