Liverpool close 2025 at Anfield against Wolves

Liverpool bring the curtain down on a turbulent 2025 with a home meeting against Wolves, aiming to finish the year with renewed momentum. Highs and lows have shaped the past twelve months at Anfield, but recent weeks have pointed towards a more stable direction under Arne Slot. Wolves arrive on Merseyside in far bleaker circumstances, having taken just two points all season and staring at an increasingly bleak relegation outlook.

Despite their league position, Wolves have shown flashes of resistance. Their narrow defeat away to Arsenal earlier this month served as a reminder that complacency would be dangerous. For Liverpool, this fixture comes with notable absences, adding an extra layer of intrigue to what might otherwise have felt routine.

Absentees shape Liverpool selection

Slot goes into the contest without several senior options. Alexander Isak remains sidelined through injury, Dominik Szoboszlai serves a suspension, and Mo Salah is away at the Africa Cup of Nations. Those absences remove goals, creativity and leadership from the side, forcing Liverpool to adapt rather than rotate by choice.

The Liverpool head coach has leaned towards continuity in recent weeks and has largely stuck with that approach again. The champions are expected to dominate possession and territory, but the lack of proven firepower places greater emphasis on structure and collective output.

Chiesa handed Premier League opportunity

One of the standout decisions sees Federico Chiesa handed his first Premier League start of the season. With Salah unavailable and limited alternatives in wide areas, this represents a significant moment for the Italy international, whose Liverpool career has so far been defined by sporadic appearances.

Chiesa starts on the right, tasked with providing directness and threat against a Wolves defence likely to spend long periods under pressure. Florian Wirtz operates from the left, while Hugo Ekitike leads the line, offering movement rather than a traditional focal point.

Familiar spine with youthful depth

Alisson Becker retains his place in goal, shielded by Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate at centre back. The only defensive change sees Jeremie Frimpong come in at right back, with Conor Bradley named among the substitutes after a minor hamstring issue.

Midfield continuity remains key. Ryan Gravenberch, Curtis Jones and Alexis Mac Allister all start, reflecting Slot’s trust in their balance and control. The bench underlines Liverpool’s growing reliance on youth, with Rio Ngumoha, Wellity Lucky, Trey Nyoni and Calvin Ramsay included alongside more experienced figures such as Cody Gakpo and Andy Robertson.

For Liverpool, the objective is clear. Maintain momentum, manage the absences effectively and ensure Anfield signs off 2025 with another victory.