In the wake of disappointing performances last season, Chelsea and Liverpool gear up for a pivotal Premier League (PL) clash that promises to be laden with tension and anticipation. The fixture, which would typically exude a PL aura, now finds itself shrouded in uncertainty as both sets of fans eagerly await the resurgence of their respective teams.
Chelsea, determined to rebound from a lackluster season, has undergone a significant transformation under the leadership of newly-appointed manager Mauricio Pochettino. The summer witnessed a comprehensive squad overhaul, with optimism surging through the fanbase. Notably, the potential addition of Moisés Caicedo from Brighton, the center of a transfer tug-of-war with Liverpool, adds intrigue to Chelsea’s rejuvenation.
Pochettino’s mandate for improvement is underscored by the fact that finishing 14th in the 1993/94 PL season remains Chelsea’s lowest standing, except for last season’s 12th place. A closer look at their recent league performance reveals a dismal record, winning just once in their final 12 PL matches (D4, L7).
The previous encounter between these teams resulted in a lackluster 0-0 draw, marking the fourth consecutive league head-to-head stalemate. However, while this result symbolized a rough patch for Chelsea, it ignited a spirited revival for Liverpool. The Reds remained unbeaten in their final 11 games of the season (W7, D4), showcasing a commendable resurgence.
Jürgen Klopp, Liverpool’s manager, faces the challenge of maintaining momentum amid a squad rebuild. Departures of key players, including Jordan Henderson, Fabinho, Roberto Firmino, and James Milner, have prompted the introduction of new signings such as Dominik Szoboszlai and Alexis Mac Allister. Liverpool’s remarkable record of unbeaten opening PL fixtures across the last ten seasons (W8, D2) raises expectations for a strong start.
Eyes will be on Nicolas Jackson, Chelsea’s new signing from Villarreal, who exhibited prowess in home matches last season. Additionally, Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah stands on the brink of history, as a goal against his former club would propel him to become the PL’s highest opening-day scorer with nine goals.
As the countdown to kickoff begins, an intriguing clash between these two giants of English football awaits. With Chelsea’s quest for resurgence and Liverpool’s determination to extend their opening-day unbeaten streak, fans can expect a captivating showdown on the Premier League stage. Chelsea’s historical record indicates they have lost only five opening PL matches (W20, D6).
Chelsea possible starting lineup:
Arrizabalaga; James, Silva, Colwill, Chilwell; Fernandez, Gallagher; Sterling, Chukwuemeka, Mudryk; Jackson
Liverpool possible starting lineup:
Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson; Jones, Mac Allister, Szoboszlai; Salah, Nunez, Diaz
Prediction
| Chelsea 2-2 Liverpool |
Live stream
The match will be shown live on Sky Sports in the UK. It will also be available to stream on Sky Go, Now TV, and JK Sports360.
