Champions League: Crystal Ball Prediction of Liverpool’s trip to Atalanta

Predicted Atalanta Starting XI

Sportello (GK), Piccini, Palomino, Djimsiti; Sutalo, Mojica, Pasalic, Freuler; Malinovskyi; Gomez, Muriel. Formation: 3-4-3

Unfortunately, Atalanta’s game against Crotone in Serie A added a few more important players to their growing injury list, with midfielder Hans Hateboer and defender Cristian Romero both substituted in the second half due to injury.

Likewise, center back Rafael Toloi picked up a knock and is now doubtful for Tuesday’s game. Despite the injuries, Atalanta is still a potent attacking threat capable of scoring goals against anybody as they have shown so far in their debut Champions League campaign.

Predicted Liverpool Starting XI:

Alisson (GK), Alexander-Arnold, R. Williams, Gomez, Robertson; Henderson, Milner; Shaqiri, Mane, Jota; Salah. Formation: 4-2-3-1

With Nathaniel Phillips, who had an excellent game against West Ham on his Premier League debut, unable to play as he was not included in Liverpool’s Champions League squad, look for Rhys Williams to get his full UCL debut on Tuesday.

Jurgen Klopp elaborated further on the squad developments when he told liverpoolfc.com, “Naby and Joel trained yesterday with the team, full, Thiago didn’t.

So, that’s the situation.” The manager likely won’t risk Matip so soon upon his return to training, even though he said he would make a “late, late, late decision” on fitness levels.

Liverpool have a very crowded fixture list until the International break with many more games to come after as well. Firmino will be rested and Shaqiri and Jota will be given the opportunity to augment their developing chemistry and good form.