Liverpool Predicted XI vs Fulham – Gakpo Returns and Szoboszlai Moves AGAIN

With Liverpool gearing up for a crucial Premier League clash against Fulham on January 2, 2026, manager Arne Slot is set to make key tweaks to the lineup, bringing back Cody Gakpo from injury and shifting Dominik Szoboszlai into a new role once more. This predicted XI in a 4-2-3-1 formation aims to maintain Liverpool's title charge while managing squad rotation amid a packed schedule.[1][3]

Predicted Liverpool Lineup

• Goalkeeper: Alisson Becker – The Brazilian remains the undisputed No. 1, providing stability at the back.[1][3]
• Defense: Conor Bradley at right-back, with Ibrahima Konaté and Virgil van Dijk anchoring the center. Bradley's pace and crossing ability offer dynamism, while the Konaté-Van Dijk duo forms an impenetrable core.[1][3]
• Midfield: A double pivot of Ryan Gravenberch and Alexis Mac Allister controls the tempo. Szoboszlai moves again into an advanced midfield role, linking play with his vision and long-range threat.[1]
• Attack: Trent Alexander-Arnold slots into right wing, Cody Gakpo returns on the left wing after recovery, and Mohamed Salah holds the right. Luis Díaz or Diogo Jota could rotate centrally, but Gakpo's inclusion boosts creativity. Darwin Núñez leads the line up top, hungry for goals.[3]

Key Changes and Team News

Gakpo's return from a minor knock is a major boost, allowing Slot to freshen the forward line. Szoboszlai's positional shift – potentially from No. 8 to No. 10 – exploits his versatility, having thrived in multiple roles this season. Injuries remain minimal: no major concerns for the backline, though Trent Alexander-Arnold's hybrid role continues to evolve.[1][2]

Tactical Outlook and Prediction

Slot's side eyes a comfortable win, predicted 2-0, leveraging Fulham's vulnerabilities at home. Fulham's lineup features Bernd Leno in goal, with Timothy Castagne, Joachim Andersen, and Jorge Cuenca in defense – solid but susceptible to Liverpool's press. Focus on quick transitions and set-pieces will be pivotal.[2][3]

This setup underscores Liverpool's depth and adaptability under Slot, positioning them strongly in the title race.

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