Liverpool will take on AC Milan at the San Siro this week to begin their Champions League journey.

After an unexpected 1-0 loss to Nottingham Forest at Anfield in the Premier League, the Reds will be eager to make a comeback with a strong performance in midweek.

For the home team, having secured only two points from their first three matches and heading into the international break with morale at a low, the victory over Venezia was vital for the red and black squad. Milan responded positively, regaining much-needed confidence. Liverpool will now be their next challengers in the Champions League.

This match recalls the 2005 Champions League final, where Liverpool faced an AC Milan team of exceptional quality. Despite being 3-0 down at halftime under Carlo Ancelotti, the outcome seemed inevitable. However, Steven Gerrard led a remarkable second-half comeback, culminating in Liverpool clinching their fifth Champions League title.

In this year’s rematch, Arne Slot is likely to employ a 4-2-3-1 formation and may adjust his lineup for the match against Milan. Darwin Nunez, Cody Gakpo, and Wataru Endo could be given starting roles.

Defense

Alisson Becker will remain the goalkeeper for the Merseyside club, despite having conceded in his previous game. Ibrahima Konate will partner with Virgil Van Dijk at the center of defense as they work to contain AC Milan’s attackers.

Trent Alexander-Arnold will look to make an impact from right-back, while Andrew Robertson will continue on the left. Both will be allowed to advance and contribute near the opposition’s defense. Joe Gomez will be available as defensive cover from the bench.

Midfield

Wataru Endo and Ryan Gravenberch will be the midfield anchors for Liverpool, aiming to assert control in the center of the field. Ahead of them, Cody Gakpo, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Mohamed Salah will form the attacking trio. The success of Liverpool’s attack will depend on their performance as they seek victory at the San Siro this week.

Curtis Jones and Luis Diaz will be available from the bench and could make a difference if introduced in the latter stages of the match.

Attack

Darwin Nunez will spearhead Liverpool’s attack, eager to showcase his speed against AC Milan’s defense. Diogo Jota will be on standby, ready to make an impact if given the opportunity.