The UEFA Champions League returns, and Liverpool’s journey back to Europe’s elite club competition begins with a challenging trip to the San Siro to face AC Milan. After a year away from the competition, the Reds will be eager to make their mark under new manager Arne Slot.
Slot’s start at Anfield has been mixed. While he initially navigated the transition from Jurgen Klopp smoothly, a recent 1-0 home defeat to Nottingham Forest highlighted the challenges ahead. Liverpool’s legacy as a European powerhouse, having reached three Champions League finals in five seasons under Klopp, is a weighty expectation for the Dutchman to manage. This season’s Champions League draw hasn’t been kind to Liverpool, pitting them against two of the most successful teams in the competition’s history in Milan and Real Madrid.
Meanwhile, AC Milan themselves have faced recent pressure after a slow start to the domestic season. However, a resounding victory over Venezia before the international break showcased the team’s potential and brought a much-needed boost of confidence. The seven-time European champions will be looking to leverage this momentum to secure a positive result against the English giants.
Here’s a look at the predicted lineups for the match:
AC Milan:
Maignan (gk), Emerson, Gabbia, Pavlovic, Hernandez, Reijnders, Fofana, Loftus-Cheek, Pulisic, Abraham, LeaoLiverpool FC:
Alisson (gk), Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson, Gravenberch, Mac Allister, Salah, Szoboszlai, Gakpo, NunezThe stage is set for a captivating encounter between two European giants, with both teams eager to prove their worth. This opening fixture promises a glimpse into the potential of each side and sets the tone for what is sure to be an exciting Champions League campaign.
