Liverpool will return to the pitch for the first time since lifting the Premier League trophy in May — but this time, it won’t be a celebration.
Sunday’s pre-season friendly against Preston North End at Deepdale comes under heavy clouds following the tragic passing of Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva.
The Reds delayed the start of their pre-season to grieve privately, and now take a quiet step back into action.
This match, originally planned as a light pre-season opener, has taken on a far deeper meaning.
But as one chapter closes, another begins — with fresh faces ready to make their mark. One name fans will be watching closely is Florian Wirtz, the 22-year-old attacking midfielder who arrived from Bayer Leverkusen in a record-breaking move.
The big question is: Will he make his debut against Preston?
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Will Florian Wirtz make his Liverpool debut vs. Preston North End
According to reports from Liverpool Echo, Wirtz is set to feature in the match along with fellow new signings Milos Kerkez, Jeremie Frimpong, and Giorgi Mamardashvili.
This would be Wirtz’s first chance to show why Liverpool spent big to bring him in.
While Wirtz might not be expected to light up Deepdale in his first appearance, supporters are eager to get a glimpse of what the German playmaker offers under new boss Arne Slot.
After all, it’s not every day you sign a player nicknamed “the heir to Ozil” and hand him the keys to your midfield.
But football will take a back seat this weekend. The club has confirmed several tributes to Jota and Silva, including black armbands, a minute’s silence, and a floral tribute placed by club representatives.
“You’ll Never Walk Alone” will be played before kick-off in what promises to be a deeply emotional return.
So yes, Wirtz may debut — but the moment will be bigger than any player.
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