Liverpool Predicted Line Up and Injury Latest Ahead of Qarabag Clash

Liverpool’s Champions League campaign reaches a defining moment this week as Arne Slot’s side prepare to host Qarabag at Anfield, knowing that victory would secure progression to the knockout stages. However, the build-up has been shaped by mounting defensive concerns and key injury absences, leaving Slot to balance risk, rotation and tactical necessity.

Liverpool enter the fixture with limited options at centre-back and several players facing late fitness tests. That uncertainty places renewed focus on the club’s predicted line up and the latest injury developments as European qualification hangs in the balance.

With pressure intensifying both domestically and on the continent, this fixture offers insight into how Slot intends to manage his squad through a demanding period.

Defensive Shortages Shape Selection Plans

Liverpool’s most pressing concern remains at the heart of defence. Ibrahima Konaté is unavailable following personal circumstances, while Joe Gomez has been ruled out after sustaining an injury in the recent Premier League defeat to Bournemouth. Giovanni Leoni, signed in the summer, remains sidelined long-term with an ACL injury.

As a result, Virgil van Dijk stands as the only recognised senior centre-back currently fit. This has forced Slot to consider alternative solutions, including deploying Wataru Endo or Ryan Gravenberch in unfamiliar defensive roles.

Endo’s tactical discipline and positional awareness make him a logical candidate to deputise alongside Van Dijk, particularly against a Qarabag side expected to defend deep and counter quickly. Gravenberch, meanwhile, has previously been trialled in deeper areas under Slot, offering technical security but less natural defensive instinct.

These limitations are likely to influence Liverpool’s overall structure, potentially encouraging a more conservative approach in possession and greater protection from midfield.

Midfield Balance Under Arne Slot

With defensive cover limited, midfield selection becomes even more critical. Slot is expected to prioritise stability and control, particularly in central areas.

Alexis Mac Allister remains a near-certainty, providing composure and tempo at the base of midfield. Alongside him, Gravenberch is likely to feature, either as a deeper midfielder or as part of a double pivot if Endo drops into defence.

Dominik Szoboszlai continues to be a versatile option. While primarily used in advanced roles, he has also been considered at right-back in emergency situations. More realistically, he is expected to operate centrally behind the striker, supporting both build-up play and pressing phases.

Curtis Jones remains in contention, especially if Slot opts for greater ball retention in midfield. His ability to recycle possession and drift into wide areas offers tactical flexibility in matches where Liverpool expect sustained territorial dominance.

Attacking Options and Tactical Adjustments

In attack, Liverpool appear better stocked, although minor fitness issues persist. Federico Chiesa has returned to training after missing recent matches, but remains a doubt after failing to make the squad against Marseille and Bournemouth.

Mohamed Salah is available again following his Africa Cup of Nations involvement and has already returned to action. His presence remains central to Liverpool’s attacking structure, particularly against compact defences.

Florian Wirtz and Cody Gakpo are competing for starting roles on the left flank. Wirtz started wide in the previous league match, but Gakpo’s direct running and goal threat could be preferred in Europe. Hugo Ekitike is expected to lead the line, offering pace and movement in behind.

Slot may look to prioritise early intensity, aiming to establish control and force Qarabag into a low block, where Liverpool’s creative players can exploit spaces between the lines.

Predicted Line Up and Match Context

Based on current availability and recent selections, Liverpool’s predicted line up is likely to resemble the following 4-2-3-1 system:

Alisson; Frimpong, Endo, Van Dijk, Robertson; Mac Allister, Gravenberch; Salah, Szoboszlai, Gakpo; Ekitike.

Giorgi Mamardashvili remains an alternative in goal should Slot decide to rotate, while Andy Robertson is expected to start despite ongoing transfer speculation. Jeremie Frimpong is currently the only recognised right-back available following Conor Bradley’s season-ending injury.

Liverpool currently sit fourth in their Champions League group, having recorded five wins and two defeats. A victory on Wednesday night would confirm qualification and remove the need for a potentially hazardous play-off tie.

As highlighted by the Evening Standard’s coverage, Liverpool’s injury latest continues to shape tactical thinking and squad management. Slot’s ability to navigate this period with limited defensive resources will be closely monitored, particularly with crucial domestic fixtures also on the horizon.

This match represents more than a route to the last 16. It is a test of depth, adaptability and long-term planning under a manager still embedding his philosophy at Anfield.