Liverpool’s next Premier League match against Chelsea won’t feature their star goalkeeper, Alisson Becker. He picked up a thigh strain in last week’s loss to Galatasaray. Certainly the loss of star keeper Alisson is felt most nowhere, but this loss particularly stings. Liverpool is in much deeper trouble, having lost eight players who are still out of action. New manager Arne Slot is coming under increasing scrutiny after his side crashed to consecutive home defeats. These losses beg the question as to whether they will be able to transition under his leadership.
Alisson’s injury rules him out of Tuesday’s match at Stamford Bridge. It further prevents him from being able to join the Brazil national team for next week’s friendlies against South Korea and Japan. In Slot’s confirmation of Alisson’s severity, it was clear that his recovery extends the timeline on when the Brazilian will return to the pitch.
“It depends on how fast the recovery goes. It’s clear not Saturday, he’s not going to play for Brazil, and I would be surprised if he’d be there for the first game after the international break against United at Anfield on October 19.” – Arne Slot
With Alisson out, Giorgi Mamardashvili, signed from Valencia shortly before Alisson, takes his place in the first team. Mamardashvili’s display would be key for Liverpool. The squad is clearly motivated to get back on their heels in the league after an 0-10 start to the season.
Injury Woes for Liverpool
On top of Alisson, Liverpool has already lost Hugo Ekitike to injury. That growing list of absentees has forced Slot’s hand, with the coach fielding some undercooked players as he limps into this pivotal clash. The team finds itself in the midst of an embarrassment of bad showings. This transitional moment in the first-team setup has alarmed fans and footballing analysts alike, fueling worry over the club’s future post-Jurgen Klopp.
Slot took over managerial duties in the summer of 2024 after Klopp led Liverpool to a record-equalling title win last season. The transition has not been smooth. The new manager has faced mounting pressure due to the team’s recent form and the high expectations that come with managing a club of Liverpool’s stature.
“Most of the games we didn’t get the points were because of the red cards. Also, the injury situation, we have eight players out. It’s a mixed combination, but we don’t have any doubt that slowly we will be again where we need to be.” – Maresca
The injuries have made Slot adjust on the fly, and as he hopes to find some answers in rough waters, Slot’s search continues. The defense especially has taken a hit, with Slot admitting they are having a tough time juggling everything defensively.
Chelsea’s Confidence
On the other side of the pitch, Chelsea rolls into their match-up with Liverpool oozing confidence. The Blues will certainly have had their eyes peeled for Liverpool’s weaknesses this season and are more than happy to take advantage. Chelsea holds a historical advantage over Liverpool, with 66 victories in their 199 meetings. Instead, their recent best performances suggest that Chelsea have the tools to punish teams for conceding space.
Maresca, Chelsea’s manager, was frank about the difficulty of preparing to play Liverpool despite their recent woes. He was realistic enough to accept that no game against Liverpool is ever easy.
“I don’t think now it is better to play Liverpool. It is always a tough game, always a big team.” – Maresca
Maresca similarly underscored the importance of Chelsea adapting their game plans as they come up against various opponents over the course of a long season. Michael Edwards admitted that weaknesses are present in each squad, even Liverpool’s, most noticeably following a series of disappointments.
“There is a vulnerability about any team in the world, not just Liverpool. But if a team wins every game, it is impossible to catch them. Now, they lost one or two games. That shows vulnerability.” – Maresca
Continuing to improve Chelsea are now moments away from coming up against fellow title challengers Liverpool. Regardless, they will look to continue their form and tuck into the feast that is Liverpool’s implosion.
Looking Ahead
The special fixture between Chelsea and Liverpool coming up in two weeks will be very important for the top teams on the table. For Liverpool, it offers a high-profile chance to get back on track following two straight defeats and with an ever-worsening injury list. Liverpool, though, will be looking to continue to establish flow and rhythm while the Blues try to exploit their flaws and win a crucial three points.
Liverpool and Chelsea have a historically animated rivalry, and this match is no different. Each team finds themselves at pivotal junctures in their seasons. Fans should get ready for a thrilling war as these two go to war for supremacy.
