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Fresh from their 3-1 comeback victory over AC Milan on Tuesday, the Reds will be full of confidence. Meanwhile, Bournemouth have had a week to recover from a tough 1-0 defeat to Chelsea. Before that thrilling game in Milan, Liverpool's new manager, Arne Slot, had downplayed his birthday celebrations, but he had every reason to enjoy the occasion after his side's impressive turnaround.
Despite an early goal from Christian Pulisic that put the six-time European champions on the back foot, Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate scored two quick headers, giving Liverpool the lead. Dominik Szoboszlai sealed the deal, adding the third goal and making Slot’s birthday a memorable one.
While the Milan win wasn’t quite on the scale of their famous Istanbul 2005 triumph, it was the perfect response to last weekend's disappointment, when Liverpool were beaten by a stunning Callum Hudson-Odoi strike in a 1-0 loss to Nottingham Forest—Slot’s first competitive defeat as manager.
Despite that setback, Liverpool are still holding strong in fourth place in the Premier League, just a point behind Arsenal and Newcastle, and two behind league leaders Manchester City. They also share the league’s best defensive record with Arsenal, having conceded just one goal in the Premier League so far, while allowing the fewest shots on target in the entire division.
Bournemouth, like Liverpool, know the pain of a last-minute 1-0 loss at home. They were unlucky not to beat Chelsea last week, with goalkeeper Robert Sanchez redeeming himself by saving a penalty he had given away, only for Chelsea’s substitutes Jadon Sancho and Christopher Nkunku to combine for a late winner.
Had Bournemouth held on for a few more minutes, they would’ve made club history with their best-ever start to a Premier League season, but now, sitting in 11th place, they face the tough task of heading to Anfield.
With just one win under their belt this season—a dramatic comeback against Everton—Bournemouth have the chance to join elite company if they can pull off a second consecutive win on Merseyside. Only 2012 Arsenal and 2021 Manchester City have managed to beat both Liverpool and Everton away in back-to-back games in the Premier League.
However, Bournemouth’s meetings with Liverpool last season didn’t go well. The Reds came from behind to beat them 3-1 at Anfield and secured 2-1 and 4-0 victories at Bournemouth in the EFL Cup and Premier League. The Cherries will be hoping for better luck this time around.
INJURIES & SUSPENSION
Liverpool’s new signing, Federico Chiesa, wasn’t ready to make his season debut against Manchester United or Nottingham Forest, but the Italian finally made his first appearance as a late substitute in the win at San Siro. Now, he's in the mix to start his first match for the Reds.With Chiesa fit and available, the only definite absence for Liverpool on Saturday is Harvey Elliott, who’s recovering from a foot fracture. However, there’s now concern over Alisson Becker, who has a hamstring issue, which could see Caoimhin Kelleher step in as goalkeeper.
Kostas Tsimikas got a surprise start against AC Milan, but Andrew Robertson is expected to reclaim the left-back spot this weekend. Luis Diaz is also likely to push Cody Gakpo back to the bench, despite Gakpo providing an assist for Dominik Szoboszlai in the midweek game.
As for Bournemouth, they will be happy to welcome back on-loan goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga, who missed last weekend’s game against Chelsea due to ineligibility. Mark Travers filled in well, but Kepa is expected to return to the starting lineup at Anfield. Tyler Adams is ruled out with a back injury, while Dango Ouattara remains doubtful with an ankle issue.
Evanilson had a rough outing last weekend, missing a penalty and being subbed off after 68 minutes. With Enes Unal returning to full fitness, the Brazilian striker now faces strong competition for a starting spot.
POSSIBLE LINE-UPS
Liverpool possible starting lineup:Kelleher; Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Szoboszlai, Diaz; Nunez
Bournemouth possible starting lineup:
Kepa; Smith, Zabarnyi, Senesi, Kerkez; Christie, Cook; Semenyo, Kluivert, Tavernier; Unal
EXPERT PREDICTION
Liverpool 2-0 Bournemouth
Apart from Hudson-Odoi’s brilliant goal last weekend, Liverpool’s defense has been rock solid under Arne Slot in the Premier League. Their strong showing at San Siro was the perfect response, and they’ll be looking for a more convincing home performance on Saturday.
Bournemouth have kept all their games competitive this season, so they’re unlikely to be completely overwhelmed by Liverpool. However, it’s hard to imagine a scenario where the Cherries walk away with any points from this one.
