Liverpool is gearing up for their return to Premier League action this weekend as they prepare to face Nottingham Forest at Anfield. The Reds have had an impressive start to the season, winning all three of their opening fixtures, including a 3-0 victory against Manchester United at Old Trafford. As they head into a busy period with seven games in three weeks, including matches in the Champions League and Carabao Cup, manager Arne Slot will face the challenge of rotating his squad effectively.
Federico Chiesa, who was signed from Juventus in a £12.5 million deal, has yet to make an appearance for Liverpool since his arrival. However, fans are eager to see the Italy international in action this weekend after he impressed coaches at the AXA Training Centre during the international break. Chiesa has been working with the Under-21s to build up his fitness, and a decision will need to be made on whether he will be included in the matchday squad against Forest.
Another player who has raised concerns is Alexis Mac Allister, who reportedly suffered an adductor injury while on international duty with Argentina. Despite missing training sessions, Mac Allister managed to play 26 minutes in a match on Tuesday night. Slot will need to provide an update on the midfielder’s fitness and decide whether it is wise to start him against Forest so soon after his injury.
Curtis Jones, who has been sidelined with a fitness issue, could make his return for Liverpool this weekend. The midfielder has been working on his recovery during the international break and is close to being available for selection. If Jones is fit to play, Slot will need to determine where he fits into the team that has performed well in his absence.
The debate between Darwin Nunez and Diogo Jota continues as both players had contrasting international breaks. Jota featured prominently for Portugal, while Nunez served the beginning of a five-game suspension for Uruguay. Jota has been the preferred choice for the central striker role, starting all three matches for Liverpool this season. With Nunez only making cameo appearances from the bench, Slot may consider giving him a start to provide Jota with some rest after a busy start to the season.
Alexander-Arnold’s role in the team is also under scrutiny as he has been substituted in the second half of recent matches against Brentford and Manchester United. The right-back has had a busy international break with England, playing in both Nations League matches. Slot will need to decide whether to continue substituting Alexander-Arnold early in matches to manage his workload during a hectic schedule for Liverpool.
As Liverpool prepares for their upcoming Premier League clash against Nottingham Forest, these key talking points will be crucial in determining the team’s success in the coming weeks. With a mix of new signings, returning players, and tactical decisions to be made, manager Arne Slot will need to navigate a challenging period with skill and precision.
