Liverpool Predicted Lineup and Injury Latest Ahead of Marseille Clash
Liverpool arrive in Marseille carrying a familiar mixture of expectation and uncertainty, the rhythm of the Champions League once again demanding precision amid disruption. European nights have long been a measure of Liverpool’s emotional resilience as much as tactical organisation, and this visit to the Orange Vélodrome feels no different. Squad management, returning stars and unresolved fitness questions dominate the build-up, shaping how Arne Slot may approach one of the most atmospheric away fixtures in continental football.
Liverpool are boosted by the return of Mohamed Salah to the travelling squad, while defensive concerns linger following Ibrahima Konate’s absence. These elements combine to give this match a tone of cautious optimism rather than certainty, with rotation and pragmatism likely to guide selection.
Salah return shapes attacking choices
Mohamed Salah’s reappearance in Liverpool’s squad after international duty is the headline development. The Egyptian forward has been away representing his country at the Africa Cup of Nations, where he helped guide them to a fourth-place finish. His return offers both a psychological lift and a selection dilemma.
Salah’s standing within the squad is unquestioned, yet rhythm matters at this level. He last featured domestically in December, contributing as a substitute, and Slot must now decide whether to restore him immediately or ease him back into the starting XI. Recent performances from Liverpool’s wide attackers, particularly Florian Wirtz operating off the right, complicate the decision.
Slot has shown a willingness to reward form over reputation, and this may again be the case. Salah’s presence, even if from the bench, alters Marseille’s defensive planning and provides Liverpool with an elite option should the match tilt on fine margins.
Defensive uncertainty tests squad depth
Liverpool’s defensive preparations have been shaped by uncertainty surrounding Ibrahima Konate. The France international was not part of the initial travelling group, having returned home for personal reasons, with his availability to be decided closer to kick-off.
In his absence, Joe Gomez is poised to step into central defence alongside Virgil van Dijk, who is set to make his 350th appearance for the club. Gomez’s adaptability has long been valued, and this fixture may once again call on his reliability rather than flair.
Van Dijk’s presence provides authority in a venue known for intensity. Marseille’s crowd thrives on momentum, and leadership at the back will be critical in weathering early pressure. Liverpool’s back line may lack familiarity in this configuration, but experience should compensate.
Midfield balance remains central
Liverpool’s midfield selection reflects Slot’s emphasis on control rather than chaos. Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch are expected to anchor the central areas, offering composure in possession and positional discipline out of it.
Further forward, Dominik Szoboszlai’s energy and pressing intelligence add bite between the lines, while Cody Gakpo’s versatility allows Liverpool to adapt fluidly during transitions. This balance is vital away from home, where emotional control often decides European ties.
The Champions League has rarely been forgiving to sides who lose midfield structure, and Liverpool’s approach suggests a desire to dictate tempo rather than react to it.
Predicted lineup and injury latest
Based on current availability and as outlined by the Evening Standard, Liverpool are expected to line up with Alisson in goal; Jeremie Frimpong, Joe Gomez, Virgil van Dijk and Andy Robertson across the back; Mac Allister and Gravenberch in midfield; Wirtz, Szoboszlai and Gakpo supporting Hugo Ekitike in attack.
Injury concerns remain limited but notable. Liverpool will be without Alexander Isak, Leoni and Conor Bradley, while Konate remains a doubt pending a late decision. Such absences test squad depth, yet Liverpool’s European history has often been shaped by adaptability rather than ideal conditions.
As the Champions League resumes, Liverpool’s predicted lineup reflects a side still evolving under new leadership, blending established figures with emerging influences. In Marseille, clarity of purpose may prove as decisive as personnel.
