RB Leipzig vs Liverpool: Match Preview, Latest Team News and Predicted Lineup | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Champions League Test Against RB Leipzig: Injury Woes and Predicted Lineup

Liverpool’s clash with RB Leipzig in the UEFA Champions League is rapidly approaching, and as Arne Slot’s side prepares for another European test, injuries could play a crucial role in shaping the match. With key players possibly sidelined, Liverpool’s unbeaten run in Europe this season faces a new challenge.

Injury Concerns Ahead of Leipzig Clash

Diogo Jota’s fitness remains a significant concern for Liverpool. The Portuguese forward, who was forced off after just 30 minutes during the Reds’ hard-fought 2-1 victory over Chelsea, is a doubt for the midweek fixture. Arne Slot, Liverpool’s manager, admitted that he would be “surprised” to see Jota ready for Wednesday’s game, adding to Liverpool’s growing list of injury concerns.

Photo: IMAGO

Trent Alexander-Arnold, who was a pre-match doubt against Chelsea, did manage to feature in that game, but his fitness will be closely monitored ahead of the Leipzig encounter. The absence of key players like Alisson Becker and Harvey Elliott, who are both confirmed to miss the game, only adds to Liverpool’s selection headaches. Conor Bradley also missed the Chelsea match, and Federico Chiesa’s situation remains unclear after missing four games due to an unspecified injury.

Slot’s Tactical Challenges

Slot’s tactical setup will need to adapt without some key figures, but Liverpool’s depth may come to the rescue. One positive is the presence of young goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher, who is set to deputise for Alisson. While Kelleher has proven his capability in previous European outings, the challenge of Leipzig’s high-octane football will test his abilities.

Photo: IMAGO

Alexander-Arnold’s role, should he feature, will be vital to Liverpool’s attacking intent. The full-back’s ability to deliver pinpoint crosses and break the opposition’s lines is essential to Slot’s game plan. With Virgil van Dijk marshalling the defence alongside Ibrahima Konaté, who faces his former club, Liverpool’s backline should hold firm, though Leipzig’s aggressive pressing style could make for an intense battle.

Predicted Lineup and Possible Alternatives

Considering the injury setbacks, Liverpool’s predicted lineup for the Leipzig clash could see some changes. Caoimhin Kelleher is expected to start in goal, with Alexander-Arnold, Konaté, van Dijk, and Andrew Robertson likely to form the back four. In midfield, Alexis Mac Allister could take the lead in controlling the tempo, alongside Ryan Gravenberch, while Cody Gakpo may shift into a deeper role to help link play between defence and attack.

Photo: IMAGO

The front line could see some rotation, with Mohamed Salah leading the attack from the right, supported by Curtis Jones and Luis Díaz. However, Jota’s potential absence could create an opportunity for Darwin Núñez to return to the starting XI, providing a physical presence in the opposition’s box.

Predicted XI: Kelleher; Alexander-Arnold, Konaté, van Dijk, Robertson; Mac Allister, Gravenberch, Jones, Salah, Gakpo, Díaz

Leipzig’s Challenge

RB Leipzig have developed into a formidable side under Marco Rose, known for their intense pressing and fluid attacking play. This clash will be a stern test of Liverpool’s European credentials, particularly with key players unavailable. Leipzig’s ability to break quickly will keep Liverpool’s defence on high alert.

With the Red Bull Arena set to provide a hostile atmosphere, Liverpool’s unbeaten run in the UEFA Champions League will be put to the test. For Slot, navigating the current injury crisis while maintaining his side’s momentum in Europe will be a major challenge.