Liverpool’s Predicted XI vs Leeds as Arne Slot Makes Two Changes to Start 2026 with a Bang

Liverpool gear up for their first match of 2026, hosting Leeds United at Anfield on Thursday, January 1, at 5:30pm, broadcast on Sky Sports and NOW. Manager Arne Slot is set to make two key changes to the lineup that secured a 2-1 victory over Wolves, aiming to kick off the year strongly against a resurgent Leeds side that drew 3-3 with the Reds less than a month ago[1][2].

The big boost is the return of Dominik Szoboszlai, suspended for the Wolves game after five yellows. His inclusion replaces Federico Chiesa, who started but is likely to return to the bench due to limited minutes and Slot's reservations despite recent cameos[1]. Cody Gakpo is fit but match-rusty after just 10 minutes since December, earmarked as an impact sub[1].

Absences persist: Alexander Isak (fractured leg, out months), Mohamed Salah (AFCON with Egypt), plus injured Leoni, Endo, Gomez[1][2]. At right-back, Slot chooses between Jeremie Frimpong and Conor Bradley[1].

Predicted Liverpool XI (4-2-3-1): Alisson; Frimpong, Ibrahima Konate, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Gravenberch, Jones; Szoboszlai, Mac Allister, Wirtz; Ekitike[1][2]. Hugo Ekitike leads scoring with 5 goals; Liverpool sit fourth after winning five of seven, averaging 1.6 goals per game with 60.4% possession[2].

Leeds (predicted 3-5-2: Perri; Ampadu, Bijol, Struijk; Bogle, Aaronson, Gruev, Stach, Gudmundsson; Calvert-Lewin, Nmecha) are in form, with Dominic Calvert-Lewin (7 goals) topping their charts[2]. Slot urges caution for Konate against Leeds' attack to avoid selection headaches[3]. The Reds eye a statement win to build momentum[1].

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