Liverpool starting XI v Everton: confirmed team news and predicted line-up

In partnership with

Anfield Index

·20 septembre 2025

Liverpool starting XI v Everton: confirmed team news and predicted line-up

Liverpool vs Everton

The Merseyside derby arrives with anticipation running high as Liverpool welcome Everton to Anfield. Both sides are seeking momentum in what is always one of the Premier League’s most emotionally charged fixtures, and team selections could be decisive in determining the afternoon’s outcome.

Liverpool’s attacking options under scrutiny

Arne Slot faces one of his most significant early tests as Liverpool manager, balancing his new-look attack with the need for rhythm in midfield. Alexander Isak, the £125 million Deadline Day signing, made his debut in the Champions League midweek, playing a role in a narrow 3-2 victory over Atletico Madrid. His arrival has generated huge expectation, but the head coach has already confirmed the striker will not complete a full 90 minutes against Everton.

Vidéos OneFootball

The Swede missed pre-season and early domestic fixtures at Newcastle before moving to Merseyside, leaving Slot to carefully manage his workload. That leaves the question of whether Isak begins this derby or is held in reserve, with Hugo Ekitike pushing for a starting role.

Positional flexibility creates midfield dilemmas

Dominik Szoboszlai has emerged as one of the more intriguing tactical stories of Liverpool’s campaign so far. Slot has deployed him in a variety of roles, including an experimental stint at right-back. He made headlines with a spectacular free-kick winner against Arsenal from that position, but his Champions League display suggested a natural return to midfield.

With Alexis Mac Allister fully fit, there is a strong possibility Szoboszlai may again be asked to shift position depending on the manager’s balance of risk and creativity. Jeremie Frimpong, who has recently returned from injury, is also an option, but Slot’s preference for defensive discipline could see him rotate.

Defensive reshuffle and returning players

Liverpool’s back line could take on a different look with Milos Kerkez pressing for a start after substitute appearances in Europe and at Burnley. Ibrahima Konaté and Virgil van Dijk are expected to anchor central defence, with Alisson in goal as ever.

Curtis Jones returns to availability after a brief spell on the sidelines, giving Slot further options in midfield. His energy and local understanding of the derby could see him play a role, particularly if the game requires intensity in the latter stages.

Everton’s challenge

Everton arrive at Anfield under pressure to disrupt Liverpool’s rhythm and to impose themselves on a fixture that has historically tested both squads’ resilience. The Blues will be wary of their city rivals’ firepower but know that early defensive organisation could frustrate the hosts and turn the atmosphere.

David Moyes has worked on compactness and efficiency in transition, with his side capable of troubling Liverpool on the counter. Set-pieces could also prove crucial, as Everton look to maximise their physical strengths in what is often a fiercely contested battle.