Just days after securing their first Premier League win of the season against Ipswich Town, Liverpool get their Champions League campaign underway as they host Atletico Madrid at Anfield on matchday one tonight at 20:00 UK time.
Andoni Iraola is set to oversee his first European Cup fixture for the Reds and will hope to mark the occasion with a win over the La Liga outfit, who are coming into the clash after a 3-0 thrashing in the Spanish top division at Athletic Bilbao.
Here is how the home side’s predicted starting eleven for the game.
Goalkeeper – Alisson Becker is expected to keep his place in goal for Liverpool.
Defenders – Jeremy Jacquet and Virgil van Dijk have emerged as Andoni Iraola’s preferred centre-back pairing at the start of this season, and the duo might retain their place in the heart of the back four again.
A change could be in store at right back with Jeremie Frimpong potentially replacing Ronald Araujo as the Dutchman’s offensive qualities will be key against a stubborn defence. Milos Kerkez, on the other hand, could start on the left side of defence.
Gravenberch and Barcola in the team
Midfielders – Alexis Mac Allister might lack the pace and physicality to keep up with Atletico Madrid’s transitions in the game, so the Argentine international is likely to be replaced by Ryan Gravenberch in the double pivot. Dominik Szoboszlai, on the other hand, might retain his berth in the double pivot alongside the former Ajax Amsterdam player, and Florian Wirtz might be employed as the offensive midfielder.
£123 million summer recruit Bradley Barcola debuted last Friday against Ipswich Town and might make his first start for his new employers tonight on the right flank, whereas Cody Gakpo could be utilised down the left.
Forward – Alexander Isak, who scored a brace in the last game for Liverpool, is set to lead the line versus Atletico Madrid.
Here is how the hosts are expected to line-up on paper.
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