Liverpool return to Anfield on Saturday, aiming to secure their spot in next season’s Champions League. Arne Slot’s side currently sit fourth in the Premier League table with 58 points, holding a seven-point advantage over seventh-placed Brentford with only three matches remaining. A victory in this fixture would officially confirm their return to Europe’s elite competition. However, the Reds must bounce back from a disappointing 3–2 defeat at Manchester United last weekend.
Liverpool have conceded two or more goals in 16 different league matches this season, marking their worst defensive record since the 2012–13 campaign under Brendan Rodgers. Nevertheless, they boast a strong recent home record against their London rivals, remaining unbeaten in their last four Anfield meetings with Chelsea. Dominik Szoboszlai continues to lead the midfield after recording 13 goals and 10 assists this term.
Arne Slot provided a significant fitness boost regarding Alexander Isak during his pre-match press conference. The striker returned to training with the squad on Thursday and is in contention to face Chelsea. Giorgi Mamardashvili is also back after recovering from a leg wound sustained in the Merseyside derby. However, the goalkeeper returned to full training for the first time yesterday. Slot indicated he will monitor how the Georgian reacts before deciding on his involvement.
Mohamed Salah and Alisson Becker have not yet resumed team sessions and remain unavailable. Both players are reportedly very close to returning to training but will miss Saturday’s early kick-off. Ibrahima Konate and Florian Wirtz are available despite missing earlier sessions this week. Konate was absent for personal reasons, while Wirtz has recovered from a minor illness. Conor Bradley remains far from a return as he continues his lengthy rehabilitation.
Liverpool predicted XI: Woodman; Jones, Van Dijk, Konate, Kerkez; Gravenberch, Szoboszlai; Frimpong, Wirtz, Ngumoha; Gakpo.
The Premier League match at Anfield kicks off at 12:30 BST on Saturday, 9 May 2026. Fans in the United Kingdom can watch the game live on TNT Sports 1. Streaming is also available through the HBO Max app or website.
