The match carries significant stakes for both sides: a victory for the Reds would guarantee a top-eight finish and direct entry into the round of 16, while even a draw could suffice depending on other results. For Qarabag, the Azerbaijani champions sitting in the playoff contention zone, a positive outcome could secure a historic knockout-round berth in their impressive debut campaign in the competition’s new format.
The latest blow came from the weekend’s Premier League defeat to Bournemouth, where defender Joe Gomez was forced off early after an awkward collision with goalkeeper Alisson Becker. Arne Slot confirmed in his pre-match press conference that Gomez will miss the Qarabag clash due to a hip injury sustained in that incident. This follows closely on the heels of other defensive absences, compounding an already precarious situation.
Slot revealed that Ibrahima Konaté is also unavailable for the game. The French centre-back has been sidelined amid personal circumstances following the recent passing of his father, and he missed training sessions leading up to the fixture. With summer signing Giovanni Leoni already ruled out for the season with an ACL injury and other players like Conor Bradley on the sidelines, Liverpool are left with only Virgil van Dijk as a fully fit, natural senior centre-back. This has forced Slot into makeshift solutions, with midfielder Wataru Endo—recently returned from his own ankle issue—likely to deputise in central defense. Endo featured briefly against Bournemouth after replacing the injured Gomez and impressed in limited minutes, but Slot noted the challenges of his workload given his long layoff and the quick turnaround to subsequent fixtures.
The defensive reshuffle could see full-backs like Andy Robertson or new signing Milos Kerkez shifted into unfamiliar roles if needed, though Robertson’s availability has been a point of relief after Liverpool halted talks over a potential move to Tottenham Hotspur. Slot emphasized that Robertson remains “part of the team” and is expected to stay at the club, quashing speculation amid concerns over squad depth. Jeremie Frimpong and other versatile options may also see time in defensive duties.
Despite these setbacks, Slot remains optimistic about key areas. Goalkeeper Alisson suffered swelling to his knee in the same Bournemouth collision but appears to have escaped serious damage, with Slot suggesting the issue may be less severe than initially feared. Backup Caoimhín Kelleher provides solid cover if required. In attack, Federico Chiesa returned to training after recent fitness doubts, positioning him for a potential squad return, while forwards like Mohamed Salah, Cody Gakpo, and Hugo Ekitiké are expected to lead the line. Slot has highlighted the need to manage minutes carefully, particularly for strikers, given the limited options up front with Alexander Isak sidelined long-term.
Liverpool’s European campaign has been a bright spot this season, contrasting with domestic struggles in the Premier League, where recent losses have dropped them to sixth. Wins over sides like Marseille showcased their attacking flair, but defensive vulnerabilities have been exposed. Qarabag, meanwhile, have defied expectations as underdogs, recording notable results including a win over Eintracht Frankfurt and a draw against Chelsea. Their attacking threats, led by top scorer Camilo Duran, could exploit Liverpool’s injury-hit backline.
Slot addressed broader frustrations in his presser, acknowledging the “noise” around the club due to injuries, fixture congestion, and inconsistent form. He lamented the smaller squad compared to previous seasons, limiting rotation options, and stressed the physical demands on players like Frimpong, who cannot always play full matches. The manager reiterated that criticism is inevitable at a club of Liverpool’s stature but pointed to their strong position in Europe as evidence of progress.
The clash represents a chance for Liverpool to regain momentum before a tough Premier League run against Newcastle, Manchester City, and others. A strong performance against Qarabag could provide the confidence boost needed, but the injury toll—particularly in defense—has heightened the pressure on Slot to adapt tactically. With qualification already within reach, the Reds will aim to end the league phase on a high note at Anfield, where they have historically thrived in big European nights.
This situation underscores the challenges of the expanded Champions League format and dense scheduling, where one or two key absences can force significant reshuffles. Liverpool’s ability to overcome these hurdles will be tested once more against a motivated Qarabag side eager to make history. (Word count: 852)
