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Liverpool Football Club has made headlines with an unprecedented summer transfer window, shelling out nearly £450 million in one of the most extravagant squad overhauls in football history. Following a Premier League title triumph, manager Arne Slot has been granted significant funds, leading to a record-breaking spend for an individual window and the highest Premier League transfer fee ever. As the dust settles on this frenzied period, Slot now presides over a truly remarkable squad, brimming with talent in both defense and attack, all geared towards defending their Premier League crown and chasing further silverware.
The influx of new faces presents Slot with a welcome dilemma: selecting his strongest XI when all players are fit and available. This article delves into Liverpool’s formidable lineup for the 2025–26 campaign, showcasing the blend of established stars and exciting new recruits.
Liverpool’s Best XI After Summer Transfer Window (4-2-3-1)
Goalkeeper: Alisson Becker – The Unquestioned Number One
While Giorgi Mamardashvili represents Liverpool’s future, Alisson Becker remains firmly in the present. The Brazilian continues to be one of the world’s elite goalkeepers, consistently delivering decisive contributions. Mamardashvili provides excellent cover for rotation and potential injuries, but Slot’s first choice between the sticks is unequivocally Alisson.
Right-Back: Jeremie Frimpong – A New Era on the Flank
Trent Alexander-Arnold’s departure has paved the way for Jeremie Frimpong, who has swiftly settled into the right-back role. The Dutch international, a dazzling performer for Bayer Leverkusen, showed promise in pre-season before an early injury. Once fully fit, Frimpong is expected to lead the pecking order ahead of Conor Bradley, forming part of a more attack-minded full-back duo alongside Milos Kerkez.
Centre-Back: Ibrahima Konaté – Solidifying the Defense
With Marc Guéhi’s move to Liverpool collapsing, Ibrahima Konaté retains his crucial spot in the starting lineup. Despite some early season wobbles, the French international, whose contract expires next summer, demonstrated significant improvement against Arsenal. Joe Gomez and Giovanni Leoni are unlikely to dislodge him, cementing Konaté’s place alongside the captain.
Centre-Back: Virgil van Dijk – The Enduring Colossus
Virgil van Dijk has been Liverpool’s defensive bedrock for nearly a decade, and the Dutchman continues to lead by example. His physical dominance has been evident in victories over Arsenal and Newcastle United, showing no signs of slowing down despite turning 34 in July. While Slot will undoubtedly manage his minutes, Van Dijk’s imperious presence remains indispensable for the Reds.
Left-Back: Milos Kerkez – The Rapid Rise of a Star
Milos Kerkez has immediately usurped Andy Robertson at left-back, establishing himself as a guaranteed starter. The £40 million Hungarian, though not flawless in his early Merseyside tenure, is an exceptional 21-year-old talent with immense potential. While Robertson will still feature, Kerkez, rapidly emerging as one of the world’s best left-backs, will be crucial in high-profile Premier League and Champions League encounters.
Defensive Midfield: Ryan Gravenberch – The Engine Room’s Driving Force
Ryan Gravenberch’s remarkable transformation in the 2024–25 season was pivotal to Liverpool’s title success. With no new midfield additions this summer, the pressure is on the Dutchman to maintain his exceptional form. The reigning Premier League Young Player of the Season has shown no signs of faltering, solidifying his position as Slot’s preferred defensive midfielder.
Defensive Midfield: Alexis Mac Allister – The Midfield Metronome
Alexis Mac Allister, Liverpool’s tempo-setter, was vital to their second Premier League title last season. Despite recent injury struggles, his blend of tenacity and technical quality makes him Liverpool’s leading midfielder. While Dominik Szoboszlai and Curtis Jones will compete for minutes, Mac Allister and Gravenberch form Slot’s preferred double pivot when fully fit.
Attacking Midfield: Florian Wirtz – The Record-Breaking Talent
Expectations are sky-high for Florian Wirtz, who arrived for a then-British record £116 million. The former Leverkusen star, one of the world’s leading attacking midfielders, will need to adapt swiftly to the Premier League. While Szoboszlai will challenge for a spot, Wirtz, with his grace, flair, and ruthlessness, is poised to become a modern Liverpool great if he translates his Bundesliga form.
Right Wing: Mohamed Salah – The Relentless Output Machine
While replicating last season’s astounding numbers (34 goals, 23 assists) might be a tall order, Mohamed Salah remains integral to Liverpool’s attack. Despite new forward options, the 33-year-old continues to be a relentless output machine, already contributing a goal and an assist this season. His experience and clinical edge are invaluable.
Left Wing: Cody Gakpo – Stepping into the Spotlight
Luis Díaz’s summer departure has opened the door for Cody Gakpo to become the undisputed first-choice on the left wing. Liverpool’s faith in the Netherlands international, who recently signed a new contract, is evident. With Federico Chiesa and Rio Ngumoha providing support, Gakpo, already with a goal and two assists, will be eager to surpass last season’s 24 goal contributions.
Striker: Alexander Isak – The Crown Jewel of the Attack
After a protracted saga, Liverpool finally secured the £125 million Premier League record acquisition of Alexander Isak on Deadline Day. The Sweden international is undoubtedly one of the world’s best strikers, and his arrival concludes a long-standing transfer target for the Reds. While Hugo Ekitiké has impressed, Isak is the superior player and will be the crown jewel at the head of this exceptional XI, sharing game time in the No.9 position.
A Frightening Starting Lineup
This new-look Liverpool squad, meticulously assembled through an unprecedented spending spree, presents a truly formidable challenge to their rivals. The blend of established world-class talent and exciting young prospects under Arne Slot’s guidance promises an exhilarating season for the Anfield faithful. With such depth and quality across the pitch, the Reds are well-equipped to defend their Premier League title and compete for every major honor.
For more insights into Liverpool’s transfer strategy and player performances, read the latest Liverpool news, transfer rumors, and more.
