Liverpool Team News vs Galatasaray
Liverpool will be without two players for their upcoming Champions League clash against Galatasaray after fresh injury concerns hit Arne Slotโs squad.
The Reds suffered their first defeat of the season at Crystal Palace last weekend, ending a flawless start to the 2025/26 campaign. Slot admitted his side were second-best at Selhurst Park, and now faces the challenge of lifting his players ahead of a tricky trip to Istanbul before another away game at Chelsea on Saturday.
There is some positive news: Hugo Ekitike is available again after serving a one-match suspension following his red card in the Carabao Cup win over Southampton. He could be preferred to Alexander Isak, who is still building sharpness after his summer move. Federico Chiesa has also been added to the Champions League squad in place of Giovanni Leoni, who suffered a season-ending ACL injury.
But Liverpool have new concerns in attack. Young striker Jayden Dannsโon the bench for the recent win over Atletico Madrid and lively in the League Cup against Southamptonโwas forced off during the U21sโ 3-2 defeat to Ipswich Town on Sunday after just 31 minutes. With the game against Galatasaray so close, the 19-year-old is not expected to be available.
Galatasaray Team News
The Turkish champions, meanwhile, have welcomed back Victor Osimhen. The Nigerian striker, who hit 37 goals last season, made his return in Fridayโs 1-0 victory over Alanyaspor after missing time with an ankle issue.
Head coach Okan Buruk revealed Osimhenโs late cameo was part of a deliberate plan to help him adapt:
โWe wanted him to feel the painโsometimes thatโs necessary. Playing through discomfort can be important. Weโll monitor his condition before deciding on the next match.โ
With Osimhen back and Galatasaray chasing a fourth straight Turkish title, the Reds can expect a fierce test in Istanbul.
