Overview
- Liverpool arrive after a 2-0 Premier League win at Ipswich in which Alexander Isak scored twice and Bradley Barcola made his debut, with Barcola pushing for a first start.
- Atlético come to Anfield following a 3-0 defeat to Athletic Bilbao and are still without forward Alexander Sorloth because of a summer muscle injury.
- Julian Álvarez completed a brief return from a summer transfer saga by appearing as a substitute against Bilbao and could feature in Liverpool’s match on 9 September.
- Diego Simeone can expect a hostile reception at Anfield after a heated confrontation with fans in last season’s meeting, and Atlético’s form raises fresh tactical questions for his back line.
- This group-stage opener on 9 September matters for early points and goal difference, and Liverpool’s strong recent record at Anfield gives home fans reason to expect a competitive edge.