Liverpool Starting XI Confirmed vs Crystal Palace | OneFootball

Liverpool Confirmed XI Line-Up vs Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park

Slot Balances Injuries and Expectations

Liverpool arrive at Selhurst Park with the weight of expectation and the shadow of absences shaping their line-up. Matches against Crystal Palace are rarely straightforward, the tight pitch, fervent crowd and London intensity often combine to create difficult afternoons for visiting sides.

This is also a period of adjustment. Arne Slot, fresh from guiding Liverpool to the Premier League title in his first season, has already had to contend with injuries, suspensions and integrating new signings. His challenge is balancing short-term demands with the long-term stability of a squad that has endured its share of setbacks.

Key Absences and Returning Names

One enforced change comes in attack. Hugo Ekitike, who was dismissed in midweek against Southampton in the Carabao Cup, serves his suspension. The forward saw red for removing his shirt after scoring a dramatic late winner, a decision that leaves Slot without another striking option in the league.

There is, however, good news. Alexander Isak is set for his first league start after Liverpool’s record signing was carefully eased back into action. Slot explained, “He’s able to make minutes again. I still feel 90 – [it] depends also on the pace and the intensity of the game – might be a bit too much.”

Photo: IMAGO

The manager continued, “So you can maybe give one, I would call, stupid hit to bring him to 90 and then you brought him too far over the line. So, I don’t think it’s smart to play him 90 yet.”

Alongside Isak, Florian Wirtz returns to midfield, adding creativity and vision, while Conor Bradley comes into the starting XI at right-back.

Major Injury Blow for Leoni

The biggest setback is reserved for Giovanni Leoni. The young defender’s injury is devastating in both scale and timing. Slot confirmed, “He is not in a good place. He tore his ACL and it means he will be out for a year.”

Losing such a promising talent for twelve months is not just a personal blow for the player, but also a reminder of how fragile Liverpool’s squad depth can become. It is another test of the resilience Slot demands from his squad.

Photo: IMAGO

Confirmed Liverpool XI vs Crystal Palace

The confirmed Liverpool line-up is: Alisson, Bradley, Konate, Van Dijk, Kerkez, Gravenberch, Szoboszlai, Mac Allister, Salah, Wirtz, Isak.

Kick-off is at 3.00pm BST, and Liverpool know three points in South London would not only consolidate their place at the summit but also send another signal of intent to rivals. The Premier League title defence is underway, and every selection reflects the fine margins required to stay ahead