Liverpool predicted XI vs Galatasaray: Salah and Ekitike to return for comeback-chasing Reds | OneFootball

Arne Slot faces a high-stakes rescue mission at Anfield on Wednesday night as Liverpool look to overturn a 1-0 first-leg deficit against Galatasaray in the Champions League round of 16.

Following a frustrating 1-1 draw with Tottenham at the weekend, the Reds saw their top-four hopes take a blow.

Liverpool must now rediscover their clinical edge against an organised Turkish side that have already beaten them twice in 2025/26 to avoid exiting this season’s edition of Europe’s premier club competition.

After missing last week’s trip to Istanbul with a minor muscle issue, first-choice goalkeeper Alisson Becker returned to the starting lineup against Spurs and will retain his place between the sticks at the expense of Giorgi Mamardashvili.

In defence, Ibrahima Konate and Milos Kerkez are expected to return after being rested at the weekend, with the former pairing skipper Virgil van Dijk at centre-back.

A major tactical question remains at right-back. With Conor Bradley sidelined, Slot may deploy Dominik Szoboszlai in a hybrid full-back role to add attacking firepower—as seen against Tottenham—or opt for a more natural option in Jeremie Frimpong.

In midfield, the established duo of Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch will provide the foundation, while creative responsibility will fall to Florian Wirtz.

Up front, Hugo Ekitike will lead the line after his own recent respite, supported by Cody Gakpo on the left and Mohamed Salah on the right.