Liverpool vs Chelsea Predicted line-ups and latest news
Liam Garcia
Dailysports's expert
The standout fixture of the eighth round of the Premier League is the highly anticipated showdown between Liverpool and Chelsea.
Both clubs changed managers over the summer and pursued completely opposite transfer strategies, yet both have made solid starts to the new season. Liverpool has recorded just one loss in their first seven matches, with six victories to their name, placing them at the top of the table. Notably, the Merseysiders have conceded only two goals in the Premier League so far, with an additional goal allowed in the UEFA Champions League. Meanwhile, Chelsea has also lost just once in the top flight and drawn twice. The Blues are one of the highest-scoring teams in the league, netting 16 goals in seven games, second only to Manchester City’s tally of 17.
Unfortunately, both teams approach this fixture with notable absences. Liverpool’s primary concern is the injury to Alisson Becker, who is expected to be sidelined until Christmas. Harvey Elliott will also miss out, and the participation of Federico Chiesa and Wataru Endo remains uncertain. Chelsea, on the other hand, will be without Marc Cucurella and Wesley Fofana, both suspended due to yellow card accumulations.
At the pre-match press conference, Liverpool manager Arne Slot praised his players and touched upon the topic of contract extensions.
“What’s happening is that they’ve been performing for their national teams. Trent [Alexander-Arnold] scored a fantastic free-kick, as you’ve probably seen. The same question, the same answer. People will always talk about our players, and it’s a good thing you’re asking - it means they’re playing really well, because if they weren’t, you probably wouldn’t ask. So it’s a positive that everyone wants their contracts extended, because it tells me - and I see it too - that they’re performing well. But I can’t comment on that right now.”
Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca, meanwhile, emphasized that while his team may not yet be in the running for a top-three finish, they are certainly working towards that goal.
“I’ve mentioned in previous press conferences that I don’t think Chelsea are currently close to those [top three Premier League] clubs for various reasons. But we’re definitely working every day to get closer to them. We understand that to bridge the gap with these clubs and get on their level, we need to keep working together day in and day out.”
The managers are expected to field their strongest lineups. Liverpool will be aiming to secure yet another win and maintain their lead at the top of the Premier League. Chelsea, on the other hand, will be looking to extend their unbeaten run and push their way into the top four.
The Dailysports team has compiled the predicted starting XIs based on the managers’ previous selections.
Predicted Liverpool line-up
Kelleher – Robertson, Van Dijk, Konaté, Alexander-Arnold – Mac Allister, Gravenberch – Díaz, Szoboszlai, Salah – Jota
Predicted Chelsea line-up
Sánchez – Veiga, Colwill, Adarabioyo, Gusto – Fernández, Caicedo – Sancho, Palmer, Madueke – Jackson
A reminder that the match kicks off today at 17:30 CET. The Dailysports team has prepared information on where you can watch the game in your country.
