Liverpool’s starting XI for their UEFA Champions League group-stage match against Girona has been confirmed. The Reds, led by head coach Arne Slot, are looking to maintain their perfect record in the competition, having won all five of their previous matches. The game takes place at the Estadi Montilivi in Girona, Spain, on Tuesday, December 10, 2024.
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Liverpool Starting XI
Liverpool’s lineup sees the return of key players, including goalkeeper Alisson Becker, who makes his first appearance since October after recovering from a hamstring injury. The Brazilian shot-stopper replaces Caoimhin Kelleher, who drops to the bench.
The defense features Trent Alexander-Arnold at right-back, with Joe Gomez and Virgil van Dijk forming the central defensive partnership. Andy Robertson completes the backline at left-back.
In midfield, Dominik Szoboszlai returns to the starting XI alongside Curtis Jones and Ryan Gravenberch. Alexis Mac Allister is unavailable due to suspension, forcing a reshuffle in the midfield setup.
The attacking trio includes Mohamed Salah, Darwin Núñez, and Luis Díaz, providing Liverpool with a potent forward line capable of troubling Girona’s defense.
Liverpool Starting XI:
Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Gomez, Van Dijk, Robertson; Szoboszlai, Gravenberch, Jones; Salah, Núñez, Díaz.
Substitutes: Kelleher, Jaros, Endo, Gakpo, Elliott, McConnell, Norris, Quansah.
Team News and Key Updates
- Alisson Becker Returns: The Brazilian goalkeeper is back in action after missing 11 games due to a hamstring injury. His return is a significant boost for Liverpool as they aim to secure a sixth consecutive Champions League victory.
- Injuries and Absences: Liverpool remain without several key players, including Ibrahima Konaté, Kostas Tsimikas, Conor Bradley, Federico Chiesa (illness), and Diogo Jota. Youngsters James Norris and James McConnell have been included in the squad to provide additional depth.
- Mac Allister Suspended: The Argentine midfielder is unavailable for this match due to suspension, following three yellow cards in the competition.
Girona’s Challenge
Girona, currently struggling in the Champions League, sit 30th in the 36-team table with just three points from five matches. The Spanish side will be desperate for a win to keep their hopes of advancing alive. However, they face a daunting task against a Liverpool side that has been in imperious form in Europe.
Girona’s lineup includes key players such as Bryan Gil, Donny van de Beek, and Arnaut Danjuma, but they will be without Viktor Tsygankov and Yangel Herrera due to injuries.
Girona Starting XI:
Gazzaniga; Frances, Juanpe, Krejci, Blind; Romeu, Gutierrez; Asprilla, Van de Beek, Gil; Danjuma.
Substitutes: P. Lopez, L. Garcia, Martinez, Stuani, Abel Ruiz, Solis, Martin, Portu.
What’s at Stake?
Liverpool have already secured their place in the knockout stages but will aim to finish the group phase as one of the top eight teams to guarantee a favorable draw in the next round. Girona, on the other hand, are fighting to stay in the competition and need a win to have any chance of progressing.
Kickoff Details
- Date: Tuesday, December 10, 2024
- Time: 5:45 PM GMT / 6:45 PM local time
- Venue: Estadi Montilivi, Girona, Spain
- Broadcast: Available on TNT Sports (UK), Paramount+ (US), and other regional broadcasters.
Prediction
Liverpool’s form and depth make them clear favorites for this encounter. With Alisson back in goal and a strong attacking lineup, the Reds are expected to dominate. Girona will need to produce a near-perfect performance to challenge the Premier League leaders.
Prediction: Girona 0-3 Liverpool
Stay tuned for live updates and post-match analysis as Liverpool aim to continue their unbeaten run in the Champions League!
