Liverpool’s Dream XI Signals Ambition and Renewal Under Slot and Hughes
Liverpool’s potential starting XI for the 2025/26 season — Alisson; Frimpong, Guehi, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Gravenberch, Mac Allister, Wirtz; Salah, Isak, Gakpo — reflects a bold and calculated rebuild combining elite new signings with established stars. Spearheaded by sporting director Richard Hughes and manager Arne Slot, this evolving squad follows a reported £280 million summer spree and has fans on social media calling it “terrifying” and ready to deliver a domestic double.
🧤 Goalkeeper and Defense: Laying the Foundations
Alisson Becker retains his spot as the undisputed No. 1, despite the arrival of Giorgi Mamardashvili from Valencia — seen as a long-term successor. At 32, Alisson’s leadership remains crucial, although Mamardashvili’s signing hints at a phased transition.
Big changes are expected in defense. Jeremie Frimpong, brought in for £34 million from Bayer Leverkusen, replaces Trent Alexander-Arnold, who joined Real Madrid on a free in June. Frimpong’s pace and attacking instincts suit Slot’s fluid system, though questions remain about his adaptation to a traditional back four.
Virgil van Dijk continues to marshal the back line after signing a two-year extension, and the addition of Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace — reportedly replacing Jarell Quansah (who’s set for Leverkusen) — brings youth, composure, and international pedigree. Guehi’s £50 million valuation reflects his status as a key England figure.
On the left, Milos Kerkez of Bournemouth looks primed to succeed Andy Robertson, whose attacking output has waned. Kerkez’s aggressive overlapping style offers shades of a younger Robertson, giving Liverpool long-term depth and drive.
⚙️ Midfield: Power Meets Precision
Arne Slot’s midfield setup has evolved into a dynamic trio: Ryan Gravenberch, Alexis Mac Allister, and Florian Wirtz.
Gravenberch has flourished as a holding midfielder, starting every Premier League game in 2024/25 — a stark contrast to his underwhelming debut season under Klopp. Mac Allister, with 13 goals and 11 assists across 90 appearances, offers balance and tactical flexibility.
The blockbuster addition, Florian Wirtz, arrives from Leverkusen for a club-record £126 million. The 22-year-old German turned down both Manchester City and Bayern Munich to join Liverpool. He created 70 open-play chances in Leverkusen’s Bundesliga-winning 2023/24 season and added 12 assists last year. His arrival may push Dominik Szoboszlai into a rotational role unless Slot reshapes his formation to accommodate both.
Fans have hailed Wirtz as a “game-changer” who can unlock low blocks — a long-time challenge for Liverpool.
🔥 Attack: Goals, Versatility, and Star Power
The attacking trio of Mohamed Salah, Alexander Isak, and Cody Gakpo is viewed by many fans as a dream front line.
Salah, who extended his contract through 2027, had a sensational 2024/25 season with 29 goals and 18 assists — matching the Premier League’s all-time record for goal involvements. His transformation into a creator has added a new layer to his game.
Gakpo has solidified his role on the left with 18 goals in 48 appearances, putting Luis Diaz’s future in doubt amid interest from Barcelona and Bayern Munich.
The centerpiece could be Alexander Isak, valued at up to £150 million. The Swedish striker netted 25 goals last season and has four goals in six appearances against Liverpool — earning him “dream signing” status. While his price tag is steep, alternatives like Julian Alvarez (Atletico Madrid) and Hugo Ekitike (Eintracht Frankfurt) are reportedly being monitored.
💬 Reaction from Fans and Pundits
The proposed XI has sparked huge excitement across X, with fans calling it “absolutely terrifying” and a “serious title threat.” BBC Radio 5 Live’s John Gibbons noted the tactical challenge of fitting Wirtz into a crowded midfield, emphasizing Slot’s need for flexibility.
There are concerns, however — particularly over Frimpong’s defensive discipline and the feasibility of signing Isak at such a high fee. Still, the blend of elite youth, leadership, and attacking flair has many believing Liverpool are ready to dominate again.
⚠️ Obstacles and Emotional Weight
While the outlook is bright, challenges remain.
The departures of Alexander-Arnold and Diogo Jota, who tragically passed away in a car accident in July 2025, leave both emotional and tactical gaps. Integrating big names like Wirtz, Guehi, and potentially Isak will take careful man-management.
Liverpool’s pre-season tour, including a marquee clash with AC Milan in Hong Kong, will be Slot’s first real chance to test his new system. His ability to maintain the chemistry that powered the 2024/25 title run will be critical.
Bottom line: With a reshaped XI full of promise, Liverpool look ready to usher in a new era — one built on bold decisions, big talent, and relentless ambition.
