Liverpool’s showdown with Actual Madrid at Anfield was at all times going to be an evening of European theatre — however now it comes with a twist. Alexander Isak and Alisson Becker will each be absent from the Reds’ lineup in some of the anticipated fixtures of the UEFA Champions League. The 2 key names have been lacking from Arne Slot’s matchday squad, and whereas the group’s current kind has lastly proven indicators of revival, the timing of those absences has stirred uncertainty forward of a defining evening beneath the lights.
The six-time European champion returns to Anfield for what guarantees to be one other chapter in its storied rivalry with Actual Madrid. The Spanish aspect, led by Xabi Alonso, arrives in England driving a near-perfect season — 13 wins in 14 matches throughout all competitions — and brimming with confidence. Liverpool, in contrast, is trying to find momentum after enduring one in all their most inconsistent runs in years.
The Reds snapped a depressing stretch of six defeats in seven matches with a 2-0 victory over Aston Villa on the weekend, because of Mohamed Salah’s 250th purpose for the membership and a strike from Ryan Gravenberch. It was sufficient to elevate spirits earlier than the go to of the 15-time European champions, however the absence of two essential figures may as soon as once more take a look at Slot’s tactical adaptability.
The fixture carries all the load of European historical past. This time, nonetheless, circumstances are totally different. Liverpool sits tenth within the Champions League league-phase desk, with two wins from three, whereas Madrid boasts an ideal document and leads La Liga by 5 factors.
Anfield’s roar will as soon as once more be their greatest weapon, particularly in opposition to a Spanish aspect that dismantled Valencia 4-0 on the weekend. And but, when the group information dropped, consideration turned to not ways however to 2 names lacking from the lineup — Isak and Alisson.
The rationale for Alexander Isak and Alisson’s absences
Hypothesis had swirled round Isak’s situation after he missed coaching on Monday. His omission, alongside that of Alisson, confirmed Liverpool’s worst fears: neither participant would function in opposition to Actual Madrid.
In his pre-match press convention, Arne Slot addressed the state of affairs with restraint, hinting that each absences have been precautionary however important. “All three are usually not out there,” Slot mentioned, referring additionally to Jeremie Frimpong. “Jeremie and Alisson will each not be out there for Sunday [at Manchester City]. Isak, we now have to attend and see. He positively just isn’t beginning — possibly he will be within the squad, however he’s nonetheless not coaching, so we wait and see.”
The Swedish striker is combating a groin challenge, whereas the Brazilian goalie is sidelined by a hamstring damage that has stored him out since late October. The information leaves the Reds counting on Giorgi Mamardashvili in purpose and Hugo Ekitike to steer the road.
The Georgian keeper, who joined this summer time, has impressed in restricted appearances, however changing Alisson — arguably the world’s most full goalkeeper — is not any small activity. As for Isak, his first season at Anfield has been marked by flashes of brilliance interrupted by health setbacks. His absence deprives Slot of a dynamic choice up entrance in opposition to Madrid’s compact protection.
