Liverpool Predicted Line-up vs Burnley as Arne Slot Faces Cody Gakpo Dilemma

Liverpool host relegation-threatened Burnley at Anfield on January 17, 2026, seeking their first Premier League win of the year under manager Arne Slot. The Reds sit fourth after draws against Leeds, Fulham, and Arsenal, despite a 4-1 FA Cup victory over Barnsley. Burnley, with just 3 wins from 21 games, have lost nine of their last 12 league matches and rank near the bottom with the second-weakest defense.[1][2][3]

Key Team News and Liverpool's Dilemma

Slot faces a selection headache with Cody Gakpo's role amid Mohamed Salah's absence on international duty and Hugo Ekitiké's return from injury. Ekitiké scored and assisted against Barnsley, providing cutting edge without the injured Alexander Isak. Gakpo, with 5 goals and 3 assists this season, could feature on the left or behind the striker, but predictions vary—some slot him in attack alongside Florian Wirtz and Dominik Szoboszlai.[1][2][3]

Injuries hit Liverpool: Conor Bradley is out for the season with a knee issue (non-ACL), joining Giovanni Leoni and Isak. Jeremie Frimpong shifts to right-back after scoring recently, with Milos Kerkez at left-back over the frustrated Andy Robertson. Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté anchor defense.[1][4]

Predicted Liverpool Line-up (4-2-3-1)

• GK: Alisson – Expects a busy game despite Burnley's struggles.
• RB: Jeremie Frimpong
• CB: Ibrahima Konaté, Virgil van Dijk
• LB: Milos Kerkez
• DM: Ryan Gravenberch, Alexis Mac Allister (recent assists)
• AM: Florian Wirtz (5 contributions in 6 games)
• RW: Dominik Szoboszlai
• LW/ST: Cody Gakpo or Hugo Ekitiké (top scorer with 8 goals)

Burnley Predicted (3-4-2-1): Dúbravka; Laurent, Estève, Humphreys; Walker, Ugochukwu, Florentino, Pires; Edwards, Anthony; Broja. Zian Flemming is absent; Ashley Barnes may push for a start after FA Cup brace.[2][3][4]

Prediction

Experts predict a narrow Liverpool 2-1 or 2-0 win, citing Wirtz's form and Ekitiké's boost against Burnley's leaky backline. The Reds' possession dominance (61%) should prevail, though recent Anfield leaks raise concerns.[2][4]

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