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The Champions League always has a way of producing heavyweight battles, and Tuesday night will be no different. Liverpool welcome Real Madrid to Anfield for yet another chapter in a rivalry that has delivered drama, heartbreak, and brilliance over the years. It’s the 13th meeting between these two football giants, and the stakes are as high as ever. Let’s take a closer look at the team news, returning players, and what fans can expect from both sides ahead of kick-off.
Liverpool’s Preparations: Fitness Updates and Selection Concerns
Arne Slot and his squad were back at the AXA Training Centre on Monday with some positive signs. Midfielder Curtis Jones was back in full training after missing Liverpool’s last two matches. His involvement in the session gave supporters a glimmer of hope that he could feature, although Slot remained tight-lipped when asked about his availability.
However, there was less encouraging news on the injury front elsewhere. Alisson Becker, Jeremie Frimpong, and Alexander Isak have all been ruled out of the 8pm clash at Anfield. The manager confirmed that both Alisson and Frimpong will also be unavailable for Sunday’s Premier League fixture, while Isak’s situation remains uncertain.
“Alex is still not training with the team,” Slot explained during his press conference. “He definitely won’t start on Sunday, but maybe he can be in the squad. We just have to wait and see.”
In addition, Giovanni Leoni continues his long recovery from an ACL injury and will not play again this season. Despite the absences, Liverpool have enough depth to field a strong side. The return of Jones would be a timely boost to a midfield that has been heavily relied upon in recent weeks.
Mohamed Salah Chasing a Personal Milestone
There will be a special sense of occasion for Mohamed Salah on Tuesday night. The Egyptian forward is set to make his 200th home appearance for Liverpool, an incredible achievement that underlines his consistency and importance since joining the club.
Salah’s influence has never waned, and he will once again be central to Liverpool’s attacking plans. His pace, movement, and clinical finishing will be vital against a Real Madrid defence that has struggled with injuries. If he finds the net, it would be another chapter in what has been a glittering European record at Anfield.
Conor Bradley Walking a Disciplinary Tightrope
Young right-back Conor Bradley, who has impressed with his energy and defensive awareness, faces a small dilemma going into this game. A yellow card would trigger a one-match suspension in the competition, meaning he’d miss the next fixture.
Slot may still opt to start him, especially with Frimpong unavailable, but it’s something Liverpool will need to manage carefully. Bradley’s confidence has grown this season, and he’ll likely relish the challenge of facing elite attackers like Vinicius Jr. or Kylian Mbappe.
Real Madrid’s Squad: Big Names Missing, Big Talent Still Present
Real Madrid arrive on Merseyside with a few absences of their own. David Alaba, Dani Carvajal, and Antonio Rudiger are all unavailable due to injury. Rising star Franco Mastantuono, who picked up a groin problem, has also been left out of the 22-man travelling squad.
Despite the injuries, Xabi Alonso’s side remains packed with quality. The Spanish coach, who knows Anfield well from his Liverpool days, has instilled balance and purpose into his Real team. They trained in Spain before flying out on Monday, with Alonso confirming his final selection during a media briefing.
“We have a strong group of players,” Alonso said. “Some are missing, but we have others ready to step up. It’s always special to play at Anfield. The atmosphere, the energy, it’s something unique.”
Trent Alexander-Arnold’s Emotional Return to Anfield
One of the most talked-about storylines ahead of the game is the return of Trent Alexander-Arnold. The England international, who left Liverpool for Real Madrid in the summer, will step back onto Anfield’s pitch for the first time as an opponent. For Liverpool fans, seeing him in white rather than red will feel strange. For Alexander-Arnold himself, it will be an emotional night.
Alonso addressed questions about his availability, confirming that Trent could play a part. “He didn’t play last Saturday because of the context of the game, but he’s available to play any number of minutes. After his injury, we’re managing his workload, but we know how important he is. He has great qualities.”
If he features, all eyes will be on how he handles the occasion both emotionally and tactically against his former teammates and the supporters who once sang his name.
Form Guide: Both Sides in Fine Shape
Both teams come into the match with confidence after convincing domestic wins on November 1. Liverpool beat Aston Villa 2-0 at Anfield, showing control and sharpness in attack. The lineup that day featured Mamardashvili in goal, with Bradley, Konate, Van Dijk, and Robertson in defence. Gravenberch, Mac Allister, and Szoboszlai formed the midfield trio, while Salah, Gakpo, and Ekitike led the front line.
Real Madrid, meanwhile, put on a show in La Liga, beating Valencia 4-0. Alonso’s side looked ruthless, with Courtois returning between the posts and a backline of Valverde, Militao, Huijsen, and Carreras. In midfield, Guler, Tchouameni, and Bellingham dictated the tempo, while the attack of Mastantuono, Vinicius Jr., and Mbappe looked unstoppable. Even without some of their regular starters, both sides look sharp and dangerous setting the stage for a fascinating clash of styles.
Key Battles to Watch
- Van Dijk vs Mbappe
The Liverpool captain will have his hands full containing the French superstar. Mbappe’s acceleration and movement are world-class, and Van Dijk’s leadership will be crucial in keeping the backline organized. - Mac Allister vs Bellingham
Two midfielders with similar creativity but different approaches. Mac Allister’s calm distribution will go up against Bellingham’s drive and attacking instincts. Whoever controls this duel could tilt the game in their team’s favor. - Salah vs Carreras
Salah’s experience and speed will test Real’s young left-back throughout the game. Carreras has impressed domestically, but facing Salah under the Anfield lights is a different challenge altogether.
Tactical Outlook
Arne Slot has built a Liverpool side that presses aggressively and transitions quickly, relying on fluid movement between midfield and attack. Expect Liverpool to start on the front foot, using the crowd’s energy to set the tempo early.
For Real Madrid, Alonso’s approach has been all about possession control and intelligent counter-attacking. With players like Bellingham and Vinicius Jr., they can strike in seconds. Real are likely to stay compact early on, absorb pressure, and look for spaces behind Liverpool’s high defensive line.
The Anfield Factor
No European night at Anfield is ever ordinary. The fans have turned the stadium into one of football’s most intimidating venues, and that atmosphere will be needed once again. Slot’s men will look to feed off the noise and intensity from the stands. For Real Madrid, it’s familiar territory. They’ve silenced this crowd before, and players like Mbappe and Bellingham thrive on such occasions. Alonso, too, knows exactly what to expect.
Prediction and Final Thoughts
This match has all the ingredients for another classic. Both teams are missing key players but have enough talent to deliver a spectacle. Liverpool will look to make a statement at home, while Real Madrid will aim to show their European pedigree once again.
Expect moments of brilliance, a few nerves, and plenty of passion. Whether it ends in a narrow Liverpool win or another Madrid masterclass, one thing’s certain the world will be watching as Anfield hosts another unforgettable Champions League night.
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Thank you for your continued support, and let’s cheer Liverpool on to success in the upcoming match. Your thoughts are always welcome in the comments section. For further insights, you may explore the official Liverpool FC website by clicking here.
YNWA (You’ll Never Walk Alone)!
The Liverpool FC Times Team
LiverpoolFCTimes.com