Liverpool’s Expected Lineup vs. Everton: Key Decisions for Arne Slot in Merseyside Derby

Can Liverpool Strengthen Their Grip on the Title Race?

The 246th Merseyside Derby is set to unfold under the Anfield lights as Liverpool host Everton on Wednesday night. The Reds, currently leading the Premier League, will be looking to extend their dominance over their city rivals and edge closer to another league title.

However, the past month has been challenging for Arne Slot’s side. A dramatic Champions League exit to PSG and a painful Carabao Cup final defeat to Newcastle tested Liverpool’s resilience. The March international break arrived at the perfect time, giving players a much-needed recovery period before the crucial season run-in.

With Trent Alexander-Arnold still sidelined, some fitness concerns to manage, and key players returning from international duty, Slot faces tough decisions ahead of this high-stakes derby.

Liverpool’s Predicted XI vs. Everton

Goalkeeper & Defense: Alisson Returns, Quansah to Start?

🔹 Goalkeeper:

• Alisson Becker is set to return to the starting lineup after overcoming a concussion suffered during international duty. The Brazilian shot-stopper remains a crucial figure in Liverpool’s defensive setup.

🔹 Defensive Line:

• Right-back: With Trent Alexander-Arnold still out, Jarell Quansah is the most likely option unless Conor Bradley regains full fitness in time for the match.
• Center-backs: The duo of Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté will start. Van Dijk will be looking to bring stability to the backline, while Konaté must improve after struggling against Everton’s physical forwards in the reverse fixture.
• Left-back: Andy Robertson keeps his place despite inconsistencies in his performances this season. His experience, however, remains valuable in high-pressure games like the Merseyside Derby.

Midfield: Mac Allister and Szoboszlai to Provide Creativity

• Ryan Gravenberch has been nursing a minor injury but is expected to be fit for this match. His physicality and ball-carrying ability could be crucial against Everton’s aggressive midfield.
• Alexis Mac Allister, who scored in the reverse fixture, will be key to Liverpool’s midfield control. The Argentine has been one of Liverpool’s most consistent performers this season.
• Dominik Szoboszlai is likely to feature in an advanced midfield role. With Curtis Jones also available, Slot might consider rotation, but Szoboszlai’s ability to break defensive lines makes him the preferred option.

Attack: Salah’s Influence, Gakpo’s Redemption, Jota Leads the Line

• Right-wing: Mohamed Salah will be the focal point of Liverpool’s attack. The Egyptian’s form and future have been hot topics, and after a shaky March for Liverpool, his presence is even more crucial.
• Left-wing: Cody Gakpo is still searching for his pre-injury sharpness, but he remains Liverpool’s third-highest Premier League scorer this season, after Salah and Luis Díaz.
• Striker: Diogo Jota is expected to start, as Darwin Núñez and Luis Díaz have just returned from South American international duty and may not be at full fitness. Jota will be eager to end his goal drought and reestablish himself as a key figure in the attack.

Key Tactical Battles to Watch

🔥 Midfield Control: Can Mac Allister and Gravenberch dictate play against Everton’s aggressive approach?
🔥 Salah vs. Everton’s Defense: Will the Egyptian king exploit Everton’s defensive vulnerabilities?
🔥 Van Dijk’s Leadership: How crucial will his presence be in keeping Liverpool focused during the final stretch of the season?

Liverpool’s Road to the Title: Must-Win Clash?

Liverpool cannot afford to slip with Arsenal and Manchester City still in contention for the title. While Everton will be fighting for every point, Liverpool’s firepower and home advantage should make them favorites.

Can the Reds continue their title charge with a dominant display, or will Everton pull off a shock result at Anfield?