Opta’s latest supercomputer predictions have revealed the new Champions League favourites, with Liverpool emerging top at 20.4% to lift the trophy. Arsenal follow closely at 16%, reflecting their strong European form, while PSG sit third at 12.1%. Behind them, Barcelona and Manchester City are both rated around 8.4%, Chelsea at 7%, Real Madrid at 5.8% and Bayern Munich at 4.4%. The model highlights that the Premier League continues to dominate, but interestingly one English side just falls short of the top-eight bracket. That club is Manchester City, who despite their pedigree and Pep Guardiola’s legacy, are no longer seen as near-certain contenders for the latter stages. Instead, Liverpool and Arsenal now lead the English charge.

• Liverpool are awaiting the results of a medical scan to assess the severity of Alisson Becker’s hamstring issue, after he was forced off in the second half of their match vs Galatasaray.

Manager Arne Slot has already confirmed that Alisson will miss the upcoming trip to Chelsea on Saturday, ruling him out before the scan results are even in.  Analysts point to Alisson’s history of hamstring problems and the mechanism of the injury — namely the sprinting action before he went down — as signs it’s likely a hamstring strain rather than simple tightness

Depending on the grade of the strain, recovery could vary widely: a Grade 1 injury typically demands 2–4 weeks out, while a Grade 2 could stretch to 4–6 weeks.  If the worst case—Grade 2—holds, Alisson might miss into mid-November, ruling him out of high-profile fixtures including clashes with Real Madrid and Manchester City

In the meantime, Giorgi Mamardashvili is expected to step in as Liverpool’s starting goalkeeper until Alisson’s fitness is confirmed

Liverpool’s dressing room has come together in a show of unity after back-to-back defeats left fans concerned about the team’s momentum. Senior players, including captain Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah, admitted frustration over recent performances, describing the mood as “mad” but also stressing the importance of resilience. In a joint message to supporters, the squad acknowledged the disappointment yet promised to bounce back quickly.

Van Dijk highlighted that setbacks are part of the journey but insisted the team’s mentality remains strong. Salah echoed the sentiment, urging fans to stay behind the players during this difficult spell. Reports suggest Arne Slot held intense team meetings aimed at addressing tactical lapses and boosting morale. Despite criticism, the squad remains confident they can turn the tide with upcoming fixtures.

The unified response signals Liverpool’s determination to reset, rebuild, and reignite their campaign, with players calling on supporters to keep faith in their fightback.