Liverpool Squad Update Ahead of Como Friendly: Injury Concerns and Team News
Traveloasisspot.com – Andoni Iraola’s managerial tenure at Liverpool is set to begin with a crucial pre-season fixture against Como, though the Spanish coach faces several selection dilemmas. The Reds are currently assessing the fitness of Jeremy Jacquet, whose availability for the upcoming match remains uncertain. This friendly represents one of the final preparations before the Premier League campaign commences, with Iraola eager to evaluate his squad in competitive conditions.
Central Defence Crisis Deepens
The most pressing concern for the new manager lies in the heart of the defence. Three players have been sidelined with injuries, leaving Virgil van Dijk as the sole fit centre-back option. This situation has prompted Iraola to act swiftly in the transfer market, securing the services of Ronald Araujo on loan from Barcelona to provide additional cover.
Jacquet’s fitness worries are particularly significant given his substantial arrival from Rennes for £60 million. The French defender’s previous season was cut short by a shoulder complaint, and he has yet to feature in pre-season action for his new club. However, he has now returned to team training, offering hope that he could be available for selection against Como.
Additional Injury Worries Mount
Beyond the defensive concerns, several other players are racing against time to recover. Giovanni Leoni continues his rehabilitation from an ACL injury sustained during his debut appearance in the Carabao Cup exactly one year ago. Meanwhile, Joe Gomez suffered a muscle problem during Liverpool’s 4-2 victory over Sunderland, with Ifeanyi Ndukwe replacing him. This latest setback could significantly impact Gomez’s plans for the season opener.
Curtis Jones has also been sidelined with a hip complaint, despite ongoing speculation linking the midfielder with a potential move to Inter Milan. The England international has since returned to training after missing the defeat to Monaco, but his match fitness remains under evaluation.
World Cup Returnees Face Fitness Tests
Liverpool will be monitoring the condition of two players who recently competed in the World Cup final. Both Alexis Mac Allister and Victor Munoz have rejoined the squad following their national teams’ run to the championship decider. Their physical condition will be carefully assessed as they transition from international duty back to club football.
The departure of Ibrahima Konate adds another layer to the squad dynamics. The centre-back left on a free transfer after his contract expired, choosing to join Real Madrid. His exit has further complicated matters for Iraola, who must now navigate the central defence situation with limited options.
Young Talent Stepping Up
Amidst the injury concerns, several promising youngsters have caught the eye during pre-season preparations. Newly-signed duo Ndukwe and Talla Ndiaye have both made appearances, while Luke Chambers has also been involved in training sessions. These players could provide valuable depth if senior options prove unavailable.
Conor Bradley and Hugo Ekitike remain longer-term absentees, dealing with knee and Achilles injuries respectively. Their absence means the club will need to rely on alternative solutions in those positions throughout the early stages of the campaign.
Team Selection Predictions
Van Dijk and Alisson both returned to action during the Monaco defeat, suggesting they could feature prominently against Como. The question remains whether Iraola will field what he considers his strongest possible lineup in the back-to-back matches scheduled for Sunday.
The predicted starting XI follows a 4-2-3-1 formation: Alisson; Frimpong, Jacquet, van Dijk, Kerkez; Szoboszlai, Gravenberch; Ngumouha, Wirtz, Gakpo; Isak. Players under doubt include Jacquet, Jones, Mac Allister, and Munoz, while Bradley, Leoni, Ekitike, Gomez, and Danns are confirmed injured.
The first match kicks off behind closed doors at 11.30am BST, with the ticketed friendly following at 6pm BST on Sunday, August 16, 2026. Iraola will be keen to use these opportunities to identify his preferred starting eleven as the new season approaches.
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