Liverpool Confirmed XI vs Newcastle United as Slot reshapes defence

Liverpool have confirmed their starting XI for the Premier League meeting with Newcastle United, with Arne Slot making two changes as his side look to maintain momentum at Anfield.

The headline decision sees Ibrahima Konate return straight into the heart of defence, restoring his partnership with Virgil van Dijk. It is a move that brings authority and familiarity to a back line that continues to evolve under Arne Slot, particularly during a period of demanding fixtures.

Defensive balance under scrutiny

Alisson keeps his place in goal, once again shielded by a reshaped defence. With Jeremie Frimpong unavailable, Dominik Szoboszlai is tasked with operating at right-back, a role that demands discipline as much as energy. On the opposite flank, Milos Kerkez comes in for Andy Robertson, offering pace and aggression down the left.

Konate’s return alongside Van Dijk brings calm and physical dominance, attributes that will be required against a Newcastle side capable of direct threat and rapid transitions. Slot’s defensive selection underlines his willingness to adapt personnel without abandoning principles, trusting players to interpret unfamiliar roles within a clear structure.

Midfield continuity and control

Szoboszlai’s defensive deployment opens the door for Ryan Gravenberch to return to midfield, where he partners Alexis Mac Allister. The pairing blends control with progressive passing, giving Liverpool the ability to dictate tempo while remaining secure against counter attacks.

It is a midfield built for balance rather than spectacle, with Mac Allister’s positional awareness complementing Gravenberch’s capacity to carry the ball forward. Against a Newcastle side missing Bruno Guimaraes, Liverpool will expect to assert territorial dominance and control the central areas.

Attacking quartet retained

Slot has seen no reason to alter his attacking unit following Wednesday’s emphatic 6-0 Champions League win over Qarabag. Mohamed Salah, Florian Wirtz, Cody Gakpo and Hugo Ekitike are all retained, a clear vote of confidence in a front four that combines invention, movement and finishing.

Salah remains the reference point, stretching defences and demanding constant attention, while Wirtz operates between the lines with intelligence beyond his years. Gakpo’s versatility and Ekitike’s presence through the middle complete an attacking shape designed to apply sustained pressure.

Curtis Jones returns to the bench after illness, strengthening Liverpool’s options from the sidelines. He is joined by experienced figures including Robertson, Wataru Endo and Federico Chiesa, giving Slot flexibility should the rhythm of the contest shift.

Newcastle approach and tactical note

Newcastle arrive without several key figures, notably Guimaraes and right-backs Tino Livramento and Emil Krafth. Eddie Howe appears to have reverted to a back four after deploying three centre-backs in midweek against Paris Saint-Germain, a tactical adjustment that may invite Liverpool to press aggressively from the outset.

With both sides navigating absences, the confirmed XI reflects Liverpool’s depth and Slot’s confidence in rotation without disruption. At Anfield, clarity of selection often sets the tone, and this lineup signals intent rather than caution.