Liverpool will go into tomorrow’s clash with Chelsea without several important players, as injuries continue to affect Arne Slot’s squad. First-choice goalkeeper Alisson Becker has been ruled out after suffering a hamstring problem in the Champions League loss to Galatasaray. The Brazilian will not return until after the international break, leaving recent signing Giorgi Mamardashvili to step in between the posts at Stamford Bridge.

In attack, there are concerns over Hugo Ekitike, who was forced off in midweek with discomfort. Although the issue is not believed to be serious, he is unlikely to be risked. Federico Chiesa is also a doubt after missing the Galatasaray match due to a minor muscle injury, and his fitness will be assessed before kick-off.

Defensively, Liverpool are without Giovanni Leoni, who is sidelined for the season following surgery on a torn ACL suffered against Southampton. His absence leaves Slot with fewer options at centre-back, adding pressure to the likes of Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté.

With two consecutive defeats to recover from, these missing names are a setback, but Slot will hope his available squad can respond strongly and secure a vital result away at Chelsea.

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has offered some revealing comments about his defensive options, dropping hints about two players while also addressing the club’s ongoing interest in Crystal Palace defender Marc Guéhi. Slot confirmed that a deal has been agreed for young centre-back Giovanni Leoni from Parma, although the official announcement has yet to be made. The Dutch coach expressed excitement about Leoni’s potential, viewing him as an investment for the future and someone who can eventually strengthen Liverpool’s backline.

At the same time, Slot admitted that missing out on Guéhi during the transfer window was “a pity,” suggesting that Liverpool remain keen on the England international. The Reds had been close to securing his signature before negotiations stalled, but Slot’s comments indicate that the door is not closed, with January or next summer being possible windows to revisit the deal.

These remarks underline Liverpool’s determination to reinforce their defence, especially with injuries already affecting depth. While Leoni’s arrival provides long-term security, the pursuit of Guéhi highlights Slot’s desire for an immediate, proven option. By hinting at both players, Slot made it clear that Liverpool are planning carefully to ensure stability and competitiveness at the heart of defence.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has backed striker Viktor Gyökeres to rediscover his scoring form despite a recent dry spell in front of goal. The Swedish forward has now gone five games without finding the net, raising questions about his confidence and sharpness. However, Arteta remains calm, insisting that Gyökeres continues to contribute positively to the team with his work rate, movement, and link-up play.

Arteta stressed that goal droughts are a natural part of any striker’s career and pointed to the forward’s proven quality and mentality as reasons to believe the goals will soon return. He also highlighted how Gyökeres’ pressing and physical presence create space and opportunities for teammates, even when he is not scoring himself.

Arsenal have faced a demanding run of fixtures across the Premier League and Champions League, and Arteta believes it is only a matter of time before the chances start going in. The manager is keen to keep faith in his summer signing, knowing that confidence can quickly turn once a striker rediscovers the net. With Arsenal pushing to compete on multiple fronts, Gyökeres regaining his scoring touch could be crucial in the weeks ahead.