Liverpool and Chelsea have played plenty of huge matches over the years, but this one arrives with both clubs under pressure for very different reasons. The reverse fixture at Stamford Bridge was already dramatic, with Chelsea grabbing a late winner through Estevao, and there is every chance this meeting at Anfield could turn chaotic again.
Neither side heads into the game with much momentum. Liverpool are still fighting to lock down a Champions League place, but their performances in recent weeks have frustrated supporters. Chelsea’s situation looks even worse, with a poor run of results leaving them with very little room for error in the race for Europe.
Liverpool vs Chelsea Predicted Lineups
Liverpool’s buildup to the game has been far from ideal because of injuries to several important players. Mohamed Salah, Alisson Becker, and Alexander Isak were all still missing from training earlier in the week, which leaves major doubt over whether any of them will be ready in time.
Salah is still recovering from a hamstring problem, while Isak is believed to be dealing with a minor groin issue. Ibrahima Konate also missed training, although Liverpool are hopeful he will still be fit enough to start.
If Alisson cannot return, Freddie Woodman is expected to stay in goal once again, especially with Giorgi Mamardashvili still unavailable through injury.
Liverpool are unlikely to completely change their approach despite recent struggles. Arne Slot’s side will probably continue playing on the front foot, looking to move the ball quickly and create chances through Florian Wirtz and Cody Gakpo.
Liverpool predicted XI
Woodman; Gomez, Konate, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Gravenberch, Szoboszlai; Frimpong, Wirtz, Ngumoha; Gakpo.
Chelsea also arrive at Anfield dealing with injury problems after another disappointing result against Nottingham Forest. Robert Sanchez and Jesse Derry have both been ruled out following head injuries, meaning Filip Jorgensen is expected to start between the posts.
Pedro Neto and Alejandro Garnacho are both doubts after missing Chelsea’s last match, although Neto currently looks more likely to recover in time.
Jamie Gittens and Estevao remain sidelined with hamstring injuries, while Levi Colwill is expected to return to the starting lineup after coming off the bench in the previous game. Reece James is also pushing for a place in the side.
Even during this poor run of form, Chelsea have still shown flashes of quality going forward. Cole Palmer and Joao Pedro remain the biggest threats in attack, especially against teams that leave space behind the defensive line.
Chelsea predicted XI
Jorgensen; Gusto, Tosin, Colwill, Cucurella; Caicedo, Santos; Palmer, Fernandez, Neto; Joao Pedro.
This game still feels difficult to predict because both teams have looked vulnerable defensively for weeks. Liverpool will almost certainly attack aggressively at home, while Chelsea have enough pace and creativity to punish mistakes if the game opens up.
