The Premier League returns to Anfield tonight as Liverpool launch their 2025–26 title defence against Bournemouth, looking to bounce back from last weekend’s Community Shield disappointment.
A 4–2–3–1 system is again expected from Arne Slot, but with subtle tweaks to the side that suffered a penalty shootout defeat to Crystal Palace at Wembley. The Dutchman has hinted at midfield changes, with Ballon d’Or nominee Alexis Mac Allister now fit and ready to start after only featuring for 20 minutes in the Shield.
“The midfield might be our strongest line when it comes to the bodies we have,” Slot told reporters. “Unfortunately, [Mac Allister] had a bit of a different pre-season, but he’s back now. I still have a choice to make in midfield.”
Mac Allister is likely to partner Dominik Szoboszlai in a double pivot, with Curtis Jonesthe probable casualty. Summer signings Hugo Ekitike, Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, and Milos Kerkez are all set for their Premier League debuts, with the latter facing his former club just weeks after leaving the Vitality Stadium.
A Summer of Change at Anfield
Liverpool’s transfer window has been nothing short of transformative. The club invested more than £250m to secure Wirtz, Ekitike, Kerkez, and Frimpong, signalling a decisive shift from last season’s minimal recruitment. These arrivals follow the high-profile departures of Trent Alexander-Arnold, Luis Díaz, and Darwin Núñez, ushering in a new era for Slot’s reign.
Forwards Salah, Ekitike, and Gakpo are expected to lead the line, with Wirtz operating just behind them. Mohamed Salah enters the season chasing a record-extending 10th goal on the opening day and his 14th direct goal involvement in such fixtures.
Opponents Out to Upset the Odds
Bournemouth, under Andoni Iraola, enjoyed a historic ninth-place finish last season but have since seen £150m worth of talent depart. Despite speculation linking Iraola to bigger jobs, he remains in charge for a third consecutive campaign.
The Cherries’ record at Anfield is grim — seven losses from their last eight visits, including a 9–0 defeat in 2022. Still, Palace’s upset at Wembley last week will give Bournemouth belief that Liverpool’s star-studded line-up can be rattled.
Predicted Liverpool XI (4–2–3–1)
Alisson; Frimpong, Konaté, van Dijk, Kerkez; Mac Allister, Szoboszlai; Salah, Wirtz, Gakpo; Ekitike.
Doubts: Gomez.
Injured: Bradley.
Suspended: Gravenberch.
With a refreshed squad, a buzzing Anfield, and the weight of expectation on their shoulders, the Reds know anything short of three points tonight will be seen as an early setback in their quest for back-to-back titles.
Down below tweet from @LiverpoolXtraa: