Liverpool have officially confirmed their starting XI for tonight’s blockbuster UEFA Champions League opener against Diego Simeone’s Atlético Madrid at Anfield — and there is no shortage of drama in the team sheet.
The headline news is the inclusion of Alexander Isak, who makes his full European debut for Liverpool. The Swedish striker, signed in a record-breaking move this summer, starts at the tip of Arne Slot’s attack. Isak’s movement, pace, and finishing have already made him a fan favourite, but tonight marks his first chance to prove himself under the intense pressure of a Champions League night at Anfield.
Another surprise comes at left-back, where Hungarian youngster Milos Kerkez gets the nod ahead of Andy Robertson, who is carrying a minor knock. Kerkez’s energy and attacking drive could be crucial against Atlético’s notoriously rugged wingers.
In midfield, Alexis Mac Allister will orchestrate play, flanked by Dominik Szoboszlai’s dynamism and Wataru Endo’s defensive grit. It’s a setup built to withstand Atlético’s aggression while still keeping Liverpool’s attacking identity sharp.
Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté anchor the back line, while Alisson stands ready between the posts. On the bench, Conor Bradley makes his return from injury, but Trent Alexander-Arnold and Cody Gakpo are absent due to fitness issues.
For Atlético, the challenge will be familiar. Simeone’s men have been Liverpool’s tormentors before — knocking them out in 2020 — and the Argentine coach will again look to spoil the Anfield party with his trademark intensity and discipline.
But this night is about more than systems and tactics. Slot’s bold decision to unleash Isak from the start sends a message: Liverpool are not here to tiptoe into Europe. They are here to announce themselves, to play without fear, and to ignite a new era under the Anfield floodlights.
Liverpool vs Atlético. Anfield under the lights. Isak’s first steps towards European stardom. Tonight, it’s all on the line.
