Liverpool predicted lineup vs Atalanta today - Europa League

  • Liverpool host Atalanta in the first leg of their Europa League quarter-final on Thursday
  • Reds are searching for their first Europa League title under Jurgen Klopp
  • Italian side are sixth in Serie A and beat Sporting CP in the last 16

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Liverpool's Europa League campaign has rarely got out of second gear but things are starting to get serious for the Reds in this year's competition.

Now at the quarter-final stage, Liverpool's rampant victory over Sparta Prague in the last 16 has set up a tantalising tie with Italian side Atalanta. The clubs have clashed on only two occasions previously, both sides coming away with a victory on the road during the 2020/21 Champions League group stage.

The Reds are searching for a first Europa League title under Jurgen Klopp during his final campaign with the club, with injuries starting to ease for the the six-time European champions. Alisson, Diogo Jota, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Stefan Bajcetic have all returned to training, although none are likely to feature in midweek.

Also competing for the Premier League title, here is how Liverpool could line up against Atalanta in the first leg.


Liverpool predicted lineup vs Atalanta (4-3-3)

Joe Gomez
Joe Gomez could return to the starting XI / Chris Brunskill/Fantasista/GettyImages

GK: Caoimhin Kelleher - While Alisson will undoubtedly return when fit again, Kelleher's impressive form means Liverpool don't need to rush the Brazilian back. However, he has been the Europa League goalkeeper this term, so may continue in the competition regardless.

RB: Joe Gomez - Used from the bench during the 2-2 draw with Manchester United at the weekend but should return to the starting lineup here. Young Conor Bradley has played a lot of football lately and needs a rest.

CB: Ibrahima Konate - 21-year-old Jarell Quansah was guilty of a significant error during the draw with Man Utd on Sunday, with Konate likely to return to the starting XI at Anfield. The Frenchman is the ideal partner for Virgil van Dijk.

CB: Virgil van Dijk - The captain remains irreplaceable and is likely to start every game between now and the end of the season. His importance cannot be overstated.

LB: Andy Robertson - The Scotsman has been a significant contributor since returning from a minor injury suffered on international duty, with his attacking qualities giving Liverpool a different dynamic down the left flank.

CM: Harvey Elliott - The youngster has often been Liverpool's saviour from the bench but should be given a chance to shine from the start against Atalanta. Dominik Szoboszlai's patchy form may hand Elliott some extra minutes.

CM: Wataru Endo - The Japan international has established himself as Liverpool's best holding midfielder, unlocking the attacking potential of those around him. He will have to keep a close eye on rumoured Reds transfer target Teun Koopmeiners.

CM: Alexis Mac Allister - The form player in the Liverpool team at present, Mac Allister has been a key provider of goals and assists in recent weeks. He's better suited to a box-to-box role and is a player with the capacity to slice open Atalanta's defence.

RW: Mohamed Salah - Despite grabbing yet another goal against Man Utd at the weekend, Salah is still yet to hit his best form since returning from injury before the March international break. However, his place in the team is never in jeopardy.

ST: Darwin Nunez - Somewhat guilty of being the 'old' Nunez against Man Utd, spurning some great openings in the final third. However, he gives Liverpool something unique up top and never stays down for long.

LW: Luis Diaz - The Colombian's form has been terrific since the turn of the year and he now has two goals and an assist since the international break. His relentless energy and neat footwork could prove decisive against Atalanta's back three.


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