Arne Slot enters his first Premier League match as Liverpool manager with a fully fit squad, ready to take on newly-promoted Ipswich Town. After a solid pre-season where Liverpool secured wins against top teams like Arsenal and Manchester United, Slot now faces the challenge of continuing that momentum into the competitive season.
One of Slot’s key decisions will be in the midfield, especially after the club missed out on signing Martin Zubimendi. Ryan Gravenberch, who has been Slot’s preferred choice in the No. 6 role during pre-season, is expected to start over Wataru Endo. Slot hinted at his plans last week, saying he has a clear idea of who fits best in that position, despite only working with some players for a short time.
In the midfield, Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai are likely to play ahead of Gravenberch, with Harvey Elliott and Curtis Jones potentially starting on the bench.
At left-back, Kostas Tsimikas may get the nod due to Andy Robertson’s limited pre-season action caused by injury. Meanwhile, young defender Jarell Quansah, who has impressed over the summer, could partner with Virgil van Dijk in central defense.
In attack, Mohamed Salah and Luis Diaz are expected to occupy the wide positions, with Slot needing to decide on his central striker. Diogo Jota appears to be the frontrunner to lead the line, though Darwin Nunez could be used as an impact substitute.
When asked about the team’s fitness ahead of the Ipswich clash, Slot confidently confirmed that everyone is available.
Predicted Liverpool XI: Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Quansah, Van Dijk, Tsimikas; Gravenberch, Mac Allister, Szoboszlai; Salah, Jota, Diaz.
