Liverpool predicted starting XI vs RB Leipzig - three changes made as 'machine' given chance to impress

Liverpool aim to continue their perfect start to their Champions League campaign when they face RB Leipzig tonight (20.00 BST).

The Reds have won their opening two fixtures in Europe’s elite club competition against AC Milan and Bologna. Another triumph over Leipzig will see them take another step towards finishing in the top eight of the new league format and automatically qualify for the knockout stage.

But with a huge Premier League encounter against Arsenal on Sunday, Slot has decisions to make when it comes to his team from the 2-1 victory against Chelsea. Diogo Jota has been added to the injury list, while Federico Chiesa, Conor Bradley, Alisson Becker and Harvey Elliott remain on the sidelines.

Ahead of the Leipzig encounter at the Red Bull Arena, here’s the Liverpool starting line-up predicted.

GK - Caoimhin Kelleher

Set to make his first Champions League appearance in almost four years as he deputises for Alisson. Largely untroubled against Chelsea and will be hoping he has a similar evening.

RB - Joe Gomez

It was a surprise that Trent Alexander-Arnold came back from England duty with a minor issue and was replaced in the 81st minute by Gomez against Chelsea. Liverpool’s vice-captain may not be risked, while Bradley is unavailable so Gomez could make just a second start of the season.

CB - Ibrahima Konate

Been in fine form this season and will come up against his former club. He’ll be keen to impress.

CB - Virgil van Dijk

There might not be a defender in Europe who is currently in better fettle than Liverpool’s captain. He’s been immense this campaign and supporters will be delighted he’s in talks to sign a new deal.

LB - Andy Robertson

Adapted well to the challenge against Chelsea and Slot may not want to make too many tweaks to his defence, so Robertson could continue over Kostas Tsimikas.

CM - Wataru Endo

The midfielder has been a bit-part player so far this campaign because of Ryan Gravenberch’s excellent form. But Gravenberch could require some respite and Endo’s battling qualities could suit this game. The Japan international was labelled a ‘machine’ by former manager Jurgen Klopp last season.

CM - Curtis Jones

Will be flying after his man-of-the-match performance against Chelsea and he has a real opportunity to nail down a regular starting berth if he again impresses.

CM - Dominik Szoboszlai

Was on pre-match press duties, which is always a clear indication of a starter. Szoboszlai will face Leipzig for the first time since joining Liverpool for £60 million in July 2023.

RW - Mo Salah

Liverpool’s talisman has already raced to seven goals in 11 games this campaign and will be determined to get on the scoresheet yet again.

ST - Darwin Nunez

The Uruguay international has a chance to stake a claim in the injury absence of Jota. Nunez earned plenty of credit for the work-rate he displayed against Chelsea but being effective in the final third will also be crucial.

LW - Luis Diaz

Has come off the bench in Liverpool’s previous two games but he should now find his way back into the team. He’s bagged five goals so far this season.