Despite the slip-up against Nottingham Forest, Liverpool are currently top of the Premier League standings with 5 wins in 6 games. They have also made a strong start in the Champions League by clinching a 3-1 victory over AC Milan at San Siro, and the gaffer Arne Slot should demand another comprehensive outcome in Europe as the Reds set to clash heads with Bologna on Wednesday night.
The Italian outfit had an incredible 2023-24 season but are struggling so far in Serie A with just 1 win in 6 league games. The home tie against Shakhtar Donetsk ended in a stalemate but they bounced back with an away win against Monza in the following fixture. Ten-man Bologna settled for a 1-1 draw against mighty Atalanta over the weekend, and the impressive run of results could boost their spirit before travelling to Anfield for this European contest.
Predicted 4-2-3-1 Liverpool Lineup To Face Bologna
Defence
Caoimhín Kelleher was outstanding between the sticks against Bournemouth and West Ham United during Alisson Becker’s injury absence. But the Brazilian, back in action versus Wolves, is expected to retain his ‘number 1’ status in Europe.
Slot has managed the minutes of his first-team stars with timely rotations. Trent Alexander-Arnold must exhibit his attacking flair, as well as defensive duties, down the right-hand flank, also, left fullback Andrew Robertson should get the nod ahead of Kostas Tsimikas. Joe Gomez and Jarrell Quansah were handed rare starts against the Hammers in the League Cup. However, the Dutch chief is tipped to rely on skipper Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate given their resilience and composure in the heart of the backline.
Midfield
Ryan Gravenberch has been a revelation as a deep-lying playmaker. He has dominated the duels, won tackles and made with-the-ball runs, along with swift passing movements. His sheer presence has allowed Alexis Mac Allister ample space to offer creative spark from the centre of the pitch. The Dutch-Argentine pair must make their presence known as they have done so far in all competitions.
Dominik Szoboszlai has been handed a free role as a ‘number 10’. The Hungarian is not only dropping deep to regain possession but also operating in the advanced areas to add more firepower in the attacking third. He must improve his final passing and finishing traits with Curtis Jones waiting for his opportunities from the bench. Liverpool are well-equipped on the flanks, but the position of Mohamed Salah remains secured even though Federico Chiesa has been roped in from Juventus. Both Luis Diaz and Cody Gakpo have been in scintillating form and Slot, therefore, has a decision to make before the midweek encounter. Gakpo might grab the starting status having been deployed as a second-half substitute against Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Attack
Diogo Jota has been productive high up the pitch, but the Portuguese forward could be rested by the Anfield boss in favour of Darwin Nunez.
