Liverpool face Villarreal in the Champions League on Wednesday night with manager Andoni Iraola expected to make several changes to his starting line-up. The Reds are without two key players after injuries picked up during Saturday's 2-1 comeback victory at Brentford.
Dominik Szoboszlai and Jeremie Frimpong were both forced off during that match, and Iraola confirmed ahead of the Villarreal fixture that neither will feature. Frimpong is facing several weeks on the sidelines, while Szoboszlai's issue is considered less serious.
Midfield reshuffle at Anfield
Ryan Gravenberch is set to return to the midfield after missing the Brentford trip through suspension. He was serving a red card ban and is expected to slot straight back into the centre of the park, partnering Alexis Mac Allister at the base of the midfield at Anfield.
Cody Gakpo, who spent Saturday on the bench after recently recovering from an injury, is expected to feature in the Champions League. He will replace Victor Munoz on the flank, completing a front four alongside Florian Wirtz, Bradley Barcola and Alexander Isak.
Defensive plans and bench options
Ronald Araujo spoke alongside Iraola at the pre-match press conference, suggesting he is in line to start. Having played only 45 minutes last time out, he should be fit and fresh, and is expected to remain at right-back as part of an unchanged back four, though Kostas Tsimikas could come in.
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 line-up and match details
Liverpool XI vs Villarreal (4-2-3-1): Alisson; Araujo, Van Dijk, Jacquet, Kerkez; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Gakpo, Wirtz, Barcola; Isak
Injured: Szoboszlai, Frimpong, Ekitike, Leoni, Bradley
The match takes place at Anfield on Tuesday October 20, 2026, with an 8pm BST kick-off, and will be broadcast on Amazon Prime.
