Starting XI Prediction: Atalanta vs Liverpool | OneFootball

Atalanta vs Liverpool: Predicting Klopp’s Starting XI

Liverpool will be eyeing yet another huge European upset as they travel to face Atalanta on Thursday. The Reds go into the game 3-0 down after a disastrous performance at Anfield, but with their season unravelling right in front of them, a big performance is needed.

With that being said, let’s take a look at who we think will make it into Jurgen Klopp’s starting lineup for this one…

Crucial Foundations

As crucial it is to try and score goals to bring the tie back, it’s equally as important to not concede anymore. Alisson Becker’s return to the starting lineup will provide some comfort to the back line. Trent Alexander-Arnold will likely return to the starting lineup in place of the injured Conor Bradley to offer an offensive threat down the right side and from set pieces.

Andy Robertson will start again on the opposite side of the defence as one of the few players who can lift their head high after recent weeks. Virgil Van Dijk and Ibou Konate will partner each other at the heart of the defence.

Verdict: Alisson, Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson

Photo: IMAGO

Stick or Twist

I’ve seen many Liverpool supporters calling for Klopp to start with just two midfielders, to allow four forwards. However, control will be the most important thing in this game and that’s why I think he will stick with three.

Wataru Endo will drop out of the starting lineup after a run of below-par performances. Alexis Mac Allister will take his place at the base of the midfield.

Dominik Szoboszlai and Curtis Jones will partner each other in the eight positions, offering a good mix of ball-playing ability and athleticism to help dictate the game and create chances.

Harvey Elliott, Ryan Gravenberch and Endo will all provide support from the bench.

Verdict: Mac Allister, Szoboszlai, Jones

Photo: IMAGO

Gakpo’s Opportunity?

Many fans have also been calling for Cody Gakpo to start this one after a run of decent showings from the bench. However, I just really struggle to see that happening. Mo Salah will certainly start on the right-hand side and I suspect Darwin Nunez will start down the middle.

That leaves the left-wing spot between Luis Diaz, Diogo Jota and Cody Gakpo. I’d personally go for Jota if he’s fit enough to start, but I’m not entirely sure he is. Therefore, I think Diaz could be in line for another start to the frustration of many supporters.

Verdict: Salah, Nunez, Diaz

Photo: IMAGO

Starting XI: Alisson, Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk (C), Robertson, Mac Allister, Szoboszlai, Jones, Salah, Nunez, Diaz

Bench: Kelleher, Adrian, Quansah, Gomez, Tsimikas, Endo, Gravenberch, Clark, Elliott, Gakpo, Jota, Danns