Liverpool’s European journey begins with a trip to Italy, where they face AC Milan in their first Champions League match. It will be a big challenge for Arne Slot in his first season at Anfield, with the pressure already mounting following a shock defeat to Nottingham Forest. The San Siro offers a difficult start to the new-look first phase of the competition, with the Reds facing a mixed bag of fixtures.

With Real Madrid and Bayer Leverkusen also in the group, Slot will be keen to secure a positive result in Milan. This game could set the tone for Liverpool’s European ambitions this season and comes at a critical time.

Mixed luck at the start of the season

Liverpool’s domestic form has been inconsistent so far this season and their defeat to Nottingham Forest raises questions. Slot’s adaptation from Jürgen Klopp’s high-intensity style of play has not been without its challenges. A trip to the San Siro to face AC Milan in their Champions League opener is a daunting task, especially with Real Madrid and Bayer Leverkusen also in their group.

But Liverpool know this competition well. The Reds have had success in Europe in the past and Slot will be looking to instill confidence in his side despite their recent setbacks. The importance of a strong start to the season cannot be overstated, especially given the strength of their group.

Milan’s challenges under Fonseca

Paulo Fonseca’s AC Milan have also had a difficult start to the season. Despite an impressive win over Venezia, Milan have struggled a bit and injuries to key players have hampered their progress. The absence of Ismael Bennacer, Alessandro Florenzi and Marco Sportiello pose problems for Milan’s squad and doubts remain over the fitness of Malick Thiaw and Davide Calabria.

Fonseca’s reign has yet to take off and, although a win against Venezia provided some relief, the Rossoneri have yet to hit their stride. Liverpool will be hoping to capitalise on these weaknesses and return from the San Siro with three points.

Liverpool’s injury concerns

Liverpool will be without Harvey Elliott, who will be out for around a month with a broken foot. This injury is a big blow for Slot as Elliott had become a key figure in Liverpool’s midfield. In addition, Federico Chiesa, who was recently signed from Juventus, has yet to make his debut and it remains uncertain whether he will play in this crucial match.

Despite these setbacks, Liverpool still boast a wealth of talent. With players like Mohamed Salah, Diogo Jota and Trent Alexander-Arnold, the Reds have the firepower to challenge Milan away from home.

Tactical battle in San Siro

Tactically, this game could be an exciting encounter. Slot’s approach focuses on maintaining possession and controlling the tempo, which will be crucial against a Milan side that prefers to sit back and rely on counterattacks. The weaknesses of Milan’s defense, particularly the injury problems in the back line, could be an area that Liverpool will look to exploit.

Paulo Fonseca, on the other hand, is likely to set up his team to disrupt Liverpool’s rhythm and create counter-attacking opportunities. With Rafael Leão and Olivier Giroud up front, Milan have the potential to pose problems for Liverpool’s defense. However, Milan’s inconsistency this season gives the Reds reason to believe they can control the game and get a positive result.

forecast

Although Milan may have the home advantage, Liverpool should go into this game confident. Slot’s team have been shining on the pitch time and time again this season and despite losing to Nottingham Forest, they have the quality to bounce back. Milan’s defensive problems and lack of form could prove decisive and Liverpool will look to take full advantage of this.

Prediction: Liverpool will win 2-0.

Game information

• Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024

• Kick-off time: 20:00 BST

• Venue: San Siro, Milan

Where can you watch?

• TV channel: Amazon Prime will broadcast the match live, with coverage starting at 19:00 BST.

• Live stream: Amazon Prime subscribers can watch via the website and app.

Team News

Milan’s injury woes include Ismael Bennacer, Alessandro Florenzi and Marco Sportiello, who will all be out. The availability of Malick Thiaw and Davide Calabria remains uncertain, putting additional pressure on Fonseca’s defense.

For Liverpool, Harvey Elliott is out with a broken foot, while Federico Chiesa’s participation remains uncertain as he is yet to make his debut for the club.

Key players to keep an eye on

For Milan, the focus is on attack, with Rafael Leão and Olivier Giroud tasked with breaking down Liverpool’s defence. Both players have the ability to change the game, especially when Liverpool’s defence shows signs of vulnerability.

For Liverpool, Mohamed Salah and Diogo Jota will be key players in attack, while the creative presence of Trent Alexander-Arnold will be crucial in creating chances down the flanks.

This game is not just about three points; it could also determine the course of both teams’ Champions League campaigns.