When it comes to the upcoming clash between Liverpool and Wolves at Anfield, there's a palpable sense of anticipation, especially regarding Federico Chiesa's potential inclusion in the starting lineup. Chiesa is eager for an opportunity to shine, as he aims to secure a rare starting position for this match.
Liverpool is now navigating the season without their recent £125 million signing, Alexander Isak, who suffered a broken leg during a match against Tottenham last weekend. This unfortunate injury leaves coach Arne Slot facing a significant challenge, as his attacking options are severely limited.
Fortunately, there is some good news on the horizon with the return of Florian Wirtz, who has overcome previous injury issues. However, the team is still missing key players, including Mohamed Salah, who is participating in the Africa Cup of Nations. Additionally, Slot has indicated that Cody Gakpo's fitness remains uncertain, categorizing him as a "50-50" chance to play, which opens the door for Chiesa to potentially make his first Premier League start this season.
It's worth noting that Chiesa's experience has thus far been confined to just two starts in the Carabao Cup, making this upcoming match even more significant for him.
Complicating matters further, Ibrahima Konate was notably absent from training sessions leading up to the match against Wolves, raising questions about his fitness for the game. If Konate is unable to participate, Andrew Robertson might need to step in and cover at center-back, showcasing the team’s adaptability under pressure.
The squad will also miss Dominik Szoboszlai due to suspension, which means Alexis Mac Allister and Curtis Jones are likely to join the five starters playing behind striker Hugo Ekitike.
In a positive turn, Jeremie Frimpong has made his return after a two-month layoff, coming on as a second-half substitute in the recent victory over Spurs. His performance could earn him a starting position at right-back, although Conor Bradley is also dealing with fitness concerns.
During the pre-match press conference, Slot commented on Frimpong's status, mentioning that while he played a maximum of 30 minutes last weekend due to his extended absence, he anticipates that Frimpong could start if the decision is made.
In terms of goalkeeping, Alisson is expected to retain his position, supported by Virgil van Dijk and potentially Konate in the center-back roles, while Milos Kerkez holds down the left-back spot. Meanwhile, Wataru Endo, Joe Gomez, and Giovanni Leoni will remain unavailable due to injuries.
The predicted Liverpool starting XI in a 4-2-3-1 formation looks as follows: Alisson; Frimpong, Konate, van Dijk, Kerkez; Gravenbech, Jones; Chiesa, Mac Allister, Wirtz; Ekitike.
In summary, the current injury list includes Isak, Endo, Gomez, and Leoni, with doubts surrounding Bradley and Gakpo, and Szoboszlai out due to suspension. Notably, Salah will also be unavailable for this match.
Mark your calendars for this exciting encounter, scheduled for 3 PM GMT on Saturday, December 27, 2025!
