Liverpool's Pre-Season Test
Liverpool Hosts Como in Friendly as New Signings Prepare for Anfield Debut
Liverpool hosts Italian side Como in a preseason friendly at Anfield, closing out their preparation before the Premier League kicks off against Newcastle United, according to SI. The match will be played twice on the same day — first behind closed doors, then a full public fixture — giving manager Andoni Iraola a final look at his squad before competitive action begins.
Iraola enters the game under pressure, having lost his last two friendlies — a 4-2 defeat to Leeds United and a 3-2 loss to Monaco, per Bellingham Herald. New signings Ronald Araújo and Jérémy Jacquet could make their Liverpool debuts, adding intrigue to what is otherwise a warmup fixture.
Iraola Looks to End Two-Game Losing Streak
Liverpool's preseason has not gone as hoped. The Reds lost 4-2 to Leeds United and then fell 3-2 to Monaco, leaving Iraola with work to do before the real games begin, according to SI. Both defeats exposed defensive issues that Como could target on Saturday.
The good news for Liverpool is that their full squad is available. World Cup finalist Alexis Mac Allister is fit and expected to feature, per Macon. Iraola will want to see a sharper, more organized side before facing Newcastle United in the Premier League opener next Sunday.
New Signings Araújo and Jacquet Could Make Their Debuts
Defender Ronald Araújo and midfielder Jérémy Jacquet are both in line for their first Liverpool appearances, according to BND. Araújo, a center-back, is expected to bolster a backline that has leaked goals in recent warmups. His debut will be closely watched by fans eager to see the new defensive setup.
Jacquet's potential debut adds further excitement to the lineup. Liverpool signed him to strengthen their midfield options. Seeing both players in action before the competitive season gives Iraola a chance to assess how they fit his system, per San Luis Obispo.
Como Arrive in Form Under Cesc Fàbregas
Como are not just there to make up the numbers. The Italian club had a strong season under manager Cesc Fàbregas, the former Arsenal and Barcelona midfielder turned coach, according to Island Packet. They finished last Serie A season with a respectable showing and are building toward a higher standing in Italian football.
Fàbregas has built a side that plays attacking, structured football. Liverpool's shaky defense in preseason means Como could find chances. This friendly is a genuine test, not just a training run, per Tri-City Herald.
What to Expect: Lineups and Match Prediction
Liverpool are expected to field a strong starting eleven for the public fixture. Mac Allister should anchor the midfield, with the front three likely featuring familiar names. Araújo could start at center-back alongside a veteran partner, giving him a proper run-out, according to Charlotte Observer.
Liverpool are the clear favorites on home turf. But given their recent form — two losses, five goals conceded — nothing is guaranteed. Como will fancy their chances of causing an upset or at least keeping it tight. Expect a competitive 90 minutes with Liverpool edging a narrow win, per Miami Herald.
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