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Liverpool Prepare for Champions League Opener Against Atletico Madrid

Liverpool head into their UEFA Champions League clash with Atletico Madrid at Anfield with almost a full squad available to Arne Slot. The Reds completed their final training session at the AXA Training Centre on Tuesday afternoon and the signs were largely positive for the European opener.

Diego Simeone’s side will arrive on Merseyside without Julian Alvarez and Thiago Almada, two key attacking options, but Slot’s squad looks close to complete. Only one significant name was missing from Liverpool’s preparations.

Key Players Involved in Session

Club-record signing Alexander Isak took part in training and appeared sharp. The Swedish striker, who cost Liverpool £125 million in the summer, sat out the weekend win over Burnley as he was considered not quite ready for competitive action. His presence on Tuesday raises the prospect of involvement, even if Hugo Ekitike is expected to start.

Alexis Mac Allister was also spotted in the session. Encouragingly, the midfielder seemed unaffected by the heavy challenge from Lesley Ugochukwu that forced concern during the Burnley game. Federico Chiesa trained as well, though he is not registered for Liverpool’s Champions League campaign.

Slot also welcomed several academy prospects to the group. Rio Ngumoha, Trey Nyoni and Jayden Danns were all present, with Nyoni and Danns eligible for UEFA’s ‘List B’ and therefore possible inclusions in the squad.

Photo: IMAGO

Curtis Jones still Sidelined

The only absentee of note was Curtis Jones. The midfielder sustained an injury in the Premier League win over Arsenal at the end of August and remains unavailable. His absence aside, Slot has almost every option at his disposal, a scenario that few managers enjoy at this stage of a long season.

Selection Options for Atletico Test

Liverpool have won four successive matches across all competitions and confidence is high heading into Wednesday’s fixture. Team news will be confirmed 75 minutes before kick-off and much of the focus will be on whether Isak starts or takes a place on the bench.

Mac Allister’s return is another boost and with UEFA allowing 12 substitutes, Slot has scope to integrate younger players into the squad. That flexibility not only strengthens the bench but also offers valuable experience to the club’s rising talents.

Slot’s Ideal Scenario

With Atletico Madrid arriving in need of reshaping due to their own injuries, Slot could not have asked for better circumstances. A largely fit squad, momentum from the Premier League and the backing of Anfield all point towards an enticing Champions League opener. The Liverpool manager is unlikely to take anything for granted, but the options available to him suggest he will be able to set out a line-up capable of extending the team’s winning run to five matches.