Liverpool Predicted XI vs. Burnley: Wirtz & Ekitike Return, Right Wing Decision

Arne Slot is set to recall key attackers Florian Wirtz and Hugo Ekitike for Liverpool's crucial Premier League home match against struggling Burnley on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at Anfield. The Reds, champions but winless in the league in 2026 so far (4 wins, 1 loss, 5 draws), desperately need a convincing victory to steady their top-four push.[1][2][3]

Predicted Liverpool XI (4-2-3-1)

• GK: Alisson Becker – Returns after rotation.
• RB: Jeremie Frimpong – Preferred over injured Conor Bradley (season-ending knee issue).[3][4]
• CB: Ibrahima Konate – Solid alongside skipper.
• CB: Virgil van Dijk – Defensive rock.
• LB: Milos Kerkez – Reliable option.
• CM: Ryan Gravenberch – Anchors midfield.
• CM: Alexis Mac Allister – Key playmaker (2 assists this season).[1]
• RW: Dominik Szoboszlai – Retains spot despite recent error; right-wing call edges out alternatives amid Mohamed Salah's AFCON absence.[1][4]
• AM: Florian Wirtz – Fresh after rest, vital creative force.[5]
• LW: Cody Gakpo – Top scorer (5 goals) and assistor (3).[1]
• ST: Hugo Ekitike – Leads charts with 8 goals, returns upfront.[1][5]

Injuries sideline Bradley, Giovanni Leoni (knee), and Alexander Isak (leg), with Rio Ngumoha doubtful after cramping. Wataru Endo is back in contention.[2][3] Liverpool average 61.3% possession and 1.4 goals per game but face a resilient Burnley (W0 D3 L3 in last 6; 3 clean sheets), managed by Scott Parker, missing Jordan Beyer, Josh Cullen, Zeki Amdouni, and Connor Roberts.[1][2]

Burnley Predicted XI (4-4-2)

• Martin Dubravka (GK); Josh Laurent, Maxime Esteve, Bashir Humphreys, Kyle Walker; Lesley Ugochukwu, Florentino, Lucas Pires, Marcus Edwards; Jaidon Anthony, Armando Broja.[1][3]

Predictions favor Liverpool 2-0, expecting Slot's big-hitters to break Burnley's low block after frustrating displays vs. Wolves and Barnsley.[2][3] Ekitike's form and Wirtz's flair should unlock the Clarets' defense in this must-win.[1][5]

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