And the possible XI for the clash with Atlético Madrid has supporters seriously excited. 🏆🔥
Andoni Iraola’s side have already shown glimpses of the attacking football he wants to build, while the arrival of several major summer signings has completely transformed the look of Liverpool’s squad.
The biggest talking point is, of course, Alexander Isak. 🇸🇪🔥
The Swedish striker announced himself in spectacular fashion last weekend, scoring twice in Liverpool’s 2-0 victory over Ipswich Town. Both goals came inside the opening nine minutes, with Cody Gakpo providing the assists, giving Isak the perfect start to his Liverpool career.
Now he could lead the line again against Atlético.
Behind him, Florian Wirtz is expected to operate in the attacking midfield role, with Bradley Barcola potentially making his first Liverpool start on the left. The French winger impressed during his Premier League debut and has quickly generated excitement among supporters.
Cody Gakpo could complete the attacking trio, although his fitness has been monitored after he missed training. That makes his inclusion one of the major decisions for Iraola before kickoff.
The midfield could once again feature Alexis Mac Allister alongside Dominik Szoboszlai, giving Liverpool a mixture of control, energy and attacking creativity.
But Mac Allister arrives with an additional storyline hanging over him.
The Argentine has publicly expressed disappointment that Liverpool have not yet offered him a new contract, despite having two years remaining on his current deal. He has also revealed that he previously turned down interest from clubs including Real Madrid and Manchester City because of his belief in Liverpool’s project. 👀🔴
At the back, Virgil van Dijk remains the undisputed leader.
The Liverpool captain is expected to partner highly-rated youngster Jeremy Jacquet, who impressed during the victory over Ipswich. Ronald Araújo could continue at right-back, while Milos Kerkez is expected to retain his place on the left.
And behind them stands Alisson Becker, ready for another massive European night at Anfield. 🧤🔥
Liverpool’s possible XI:
Alisson
Araújo
Jacquet
Van Dijk
Kerkez
Mac Allister
Szoboszlai
Gakpo
Wirtz
Barcola
Isak
It is an XI packed with quality, pace and serious attacking firepower. 🤯🔥
There is also plenty of intrigue on the bench, with Jeremie Frimpong, Ryan Gravenberch and other attacking options available depending on the match situation.
Liverpool will not have their full squad available, however. Federico Chiesa and Wataru Endo were not included in the Champions League squad, while Joe Gomez, Conor Bradley, Hugo Ekitike and Giovanni Leoni remain unavailable because of injuries.
For Atlético Madrid, the challenge is enormous.
Diego Simeone’s side suffered a heavy 3-0 defeat against Athletic Club in their previous match, while Alexander Sørloth is unavailable through injury and Arnau Ortiz is suspended.
That makes this Champions League opener even more fascinating.
Liverpool have the momentum.
Isak has arrived with a bang.
Barcola is ready to explode.
Wirtz is searching for another magical European performance.
And Anfield is waiting. 🏟️🔥
This could be one of those nights where Liverpool’s new-look attack announces itself to Europe in spectacular fashion. 👀🏆🔴
Full story in comments 👇
