Richard Dean
Updated on: October 12, 2024 2:29 pm GMT
As Liverpool prepares to face AC Milan in the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday night, questions loom large over the team’s recent performances and lineup decisions. After a shaky start to the season, head coach Arne Slot has acknowledged that “something is wrong” with the Reds, leaving fans eager for a glimpse of improvement in the elite European competition at San Siro.
Team News Ahead of Champions League Clash
Liverpool’s journey resumes with a crucial match against the Italian giants, AC Milan, starting at 8 PM BST. Slot announced a 23-man traveling squad that includes summer signing Federico Chiesa, who is making a return to his home country. Despite the excitement, Slot hinted that Chiesa may not start due to limited training since joining from Juventus.
- Key Points:
– Chiesa returns to Italy and may play for the first time.
– Slot suggests a starting position is unlikely: “It would be a big surprise for him and for everyone if he would start tomorrow.”
– Alexis Mac Allister’s status is up in the air after his recent return from injury.
Head Coach’s Statements
Slot addressed the media on Monday, discussing Chiesa’s potential contributions: “It is too early for him to play 90 minutes, but hopefully, he can make his first minutes in the upcoming fixtures.”
Regarding the midfield, Mac Allister’s performance against Nottingham Forest was highlighted. “I took him off after around 60 minutes against Nottingham Forest,” Slot explained, referencing Mac Allister’s limited play time recently. “He is able to play tomorrow again, 60 or 90 minutes, but we will see the decision I will make tomorrow.”
AC Milan: Strengths and Absences
AC Milan is coming off a convincing 4-0 victory against Venezia. Head coach Paulo Fonseca emphasized the importance of the upcoming matches, including a derby against Internazionale over the weekend. However, he faces challenges with injuries to key players.
- Injuries:
– Marco Sportiello (goalkeeper)
– Alessandro Florenzi (defender)
– Malick Thiaw (defender)
– Ismael Bennacer (midfielder)
Fonseca shared insights on his squad depth and the possibility of rotation: “Tomorrow is the most important because it is the next one, but I cannot forget that we have the derby in the next Serie A game.” He mentioned that while some players might impact both matches, others could be rested to maintain performance levels.
Midfield Dynamics
With Bennacer sidelined, Fonseca highlighted the emergence of young talents like Kevin Zeroli and Silvano Vos. “We have good players in this position,” he stated, pointing to the depth available to manage injuries effectively.
Recent Performance Analysis
Both teams enter this match with contrasting form, and history, which sets the stage for an intriguing showdown. Liverpool’s recent record has included three wins without conceding, but their confidence was shaken by a recent home defeat to Nottingham Forest—a situation Slot is eager to address.
- Recent Match Outcomes:
– AC Milan: 4-0 win against Venezia
– Liverpool: 0-1 loss to Nottingham Forest
This seesaw in performance has led Slot to reflect critically on his team’s state. Despite the earlier successes, the sudden downturn raises flags about durability and morale.
Key Matchup Considerations
As Liverpool revs up for this critical encounter, fans and analysts alike will focus on key matchups that could define the game:
- Chiesa’s integration into the team.
- Mac Allister’s ability to contribute effectively in the midfield.
- Milan’s defensive lineup against Liverpool’s attacking prowess.
Conclusion: A Test of Resilience
With the European stage set, Liverpool must find a way to reclaim its former glory and understand the problems plaguing its current form. All eyes will be on San Siro, where the Reds look to shake off the cobwebs of recent performances.
The game against AC Milan is really important for this season. It will show how strong and smart Slot and his players can be. Fans from both teams will be on the edge of their seats, excited to see an amazing match in the big Champions League!
