Chelsea and Liverpool face off today at Stamford Bridge in a highly anticipated Premier League clash, with both teams looking to improve their recent form. Kick-off is set for 5:30 PM BST.
Liverpool, currently the reigning Premier League champions, are aiming to avoid a third consecutive defeat after losses to Crystal Palace in the Premier League and Galatasaray in the Champions League. Integrating new summer signings such as Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak, along with injuries and key players struggling to find form, have contributed to Liverpool's inconsistent performances. Liverpool's manager, Arne Slot, acknowledged that opponents may be figuring out Liverpool's style of play, which has added to their recent challenges. The Reds will be without their first-choice goalkeeper, Alisson Becker, due to a hamstring injury sustained in the match against Galatasaray. Giorgi Mamardashvili is set to make his Premier League debut in Alisson's place. Hugo Ekitike and Federico Chiesa are also doubtful for the match.
Chelsea, under the guidance of Enzo Maresca, are also seeking a return to winning form in the Premier League, having lost their last two league matches. However, they managed a 1-0 victory against Benfica in the Champions League in midweek. Chelsea currently sits eighth in the league table. Chelsea has several players sidelined due to injury, including Cole Palmer, Tosin Adarabioyo, Levi Colwill, Wesley Fofana, and Dario Essugo. Trevoh Chalobah is also unavailable due to suspension. Enzo Fernández, the Argentine midfielder, has been a standout player for Chelsea, with three goals and one assist in six Premier League games.
Both teams have key absentees, which will likely impact their team selections and strategies. Chelsea's possible lineup could see Sanchez in goal, with Gusto, Acheampong, Badiashile, Cucurella, and James in defense; Enzo and Caicedo in midfield; and Garnacho, Pedro, and Neto in attack. Liverpool's possible lineup might feature Mamardashvili in goal; Bradley, Konate, Van Dijk, and Kerkez in defense; Gravenberch, Szoboszlai, and Mac Allister in midfield; and Salah, Isak, and Gakpo leading the attack.
This match is crucial for both Chelsea and Liverpool as they aim to regain momentum and secure a strong position in the Premier League before the upcoming international break.
