Liverpool Confirmed XI vs Burnley | OneFootball

Liverpool Confirmed XI Named for Burnley Test as Slot Brings Changes

Liverpool return to Premier League duty with a reshaped side as Arne Slot confirms his starting XI to face Burnley. Six changes have been made from the midweek victory over Barnsley, reflecting both squad rotation and the need for sharper control as domestic priorities return to the forefront.

Monday night’s 4-1 win in the cup required late authority to turn comfort into clarity, and this weekend presents a different examination. Burnley arrive with their own intensity and organisation, and Liverpool’s response will be measured not by flair alone but by authority across the pitch.

Slot Rotates with Purpose

Rotation is part of the rhythm under Slot, yet there is little sense of experimentation for its own sake. Hugo Ekitike returns to lead the line after making an impact from the bench, rewarded for his sharp movement and composure. Florian Wirtz also steps into the starting side, bringing craft between the lines and an ability to unsettle deep defensive blocks.

Photo: IMAGO

The manager’s selection suggests an appetite for control rather than chaos, particularly after a cup tie that required late intervention to impose order. Burnley demand clarity in possession and discipline without the ball, traits Slot has consistently prioritised since taking charge.

Defensive Core Reassembled

Alisson returns in goal, restored after a frustrating evening for Giorgi Mamardashvili, who was denied a clean sheet through no fault of his own. The Brazilian’s presence immediately lifts the defensive unit, not only for his shot stopping but for his command and distribution.

Ahead of him, the back four carries a blend of pace, strength and balance. Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez provide thrust from full back, while Ibrahima Konate partners Virgil van Dijk at centre half. It is a familiar axis, built on authority and communication, and one Slot will expect to set the tone early against a physical Burnley side.

Midfield Balance and Wide Creativity

Ryan Gravenberch returns to midfield alongside Curtis Jones, a pairing that offers athleticism and ball retention. Their task will be to dictate tempo and prevent Burnley from building momentum through second balls and transitions.

Photo: IMAGO

Further forward, Dominik Szoboszlai shifts to the right flank, with Cody Gakpo operating from the left. Both provide goals, pressing energy and intelligent movement, supporting Wirtz in advanced areas. It is a front line designed to stretch the pitch while creating overloads centrally for Ekitike to exploit.

Liverpool’s shape suggests flexibility, with Szoboszlai and Gakpo capable of drifting inside and allowing the full backs to advance. That adaptability has become a hallmark of Slot’s Liverpool, particularly at Anfield where sustained pressure often tells.

Bench Strength Adds Insurance

The substitutes bench reflects Liverpool’s depth and ambition. Alexis Mac Allister and Wataru Endo offer midfield control if required, while Federico Chiesa provides a direct attacking option late on. There is also space for youth, with Trey Nyoni and Rio Ngumoha continuing their involvement around the first team.

Burnley may arrive with belief, but Liverpool’s Confirmed XI carries authority, balance and momentum. Slot will demand a more decisive performance than midweek, one that underlines why his side remain the benchmark.

Liverpool Confirmed XI  Alisson; Frimpong, Konate, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Gravenberch, Jones; Szoboszlai, Wirtz, Gakpo; Ekitike.

Substitutes:Mamardashvili, Gomez, Robertson, Ramsay, Endo, Mac Allister, Nyoni, Chiesa, Ngumoha.