Liverpool are without Dominik Szoboszlai and Jeremie Frimpong for the Champions League clash against Villarreal, but Cody Gakpo could start at Anfield.
The Reds endured a frustrating trip to Brentford on Saturday despite picking up a turnaround 2-1 victory, with both Szoboszlai and Frimpong forced off with injuries.
Midfield Reinforcements
Speaking ahead of the Villarreal match, Iraola confirmed the pair will both miss tonight’s fixture, with Frimpong facing several weeks out but Szoboszlai’s issue deemed less serious.
As such, Ryan Gravenberch is expected to be reinstated into the midfield here, after he missed the Brentford trip due to serving a suspension. He will slot back into the centre of the park, partnering Alexis Mac Allister.
Gakpo Set to Feature
Gakpo, meanwhile, spent Saturday on the bench having only recently shaken off an injury, but Iraola has confirmed he expects the Dutchman to feature in the Champions League. He could take the place of Victor Munoz on the flank, completing a front four with Florian Wirtz, Bradley Barcola and Alexander Isak.
Ronald Araujo spoke alongside Iraola at the pre-match press conference, suggesting he is in line to start. Having only played 45 minutes last time out, he should be fit and fresh. He is likely to feature at right-back as part of an unchanged back four, though there may be scope for Kostas Tsimikas to come in at left-back.
Bench Options and Absentees
Youngsters Rio Ngumoha, Lewis Koumas and Trey Nyoni will all be keen for a chance to impress off the bench after doing so at the Gtech Stadium. Joining Szoboszlai and Frimpong on the treatment table are Giovanni Leoni and Conor Bradley, both recovering from long-term knee problems.
Predicted Liverpool XI vs Villarreal (4-2-3-1): Alisson; Araujo, Jacquet, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Gakpo, Wirtz, Barcola; Isak. Injured: Szoboszlai, Frimpong, Ekitike, Leoni, Bradley. Ineligible: Chiesa, Endo. Time and date: 8pm BST on Tuesday October 20, 2026. Venue: Anfield. How to watch: Amazon Prime.
