Image Credits: Imago Images
Liverpool travel to the Vitality Stadium on Saturday evening seeking their first Premier League victory of 2026 and a vital three points in the top-four race. The 5:30pm GMT kickoff sees Arne Slot’s side buoyed by Wednesday’s commanding 3-0 Champions League triumph at Marseille.
The Reds sit fourth in the table, level on points with Manchester United at fifth-place but ahead on goal difference.
Bournemouth, languishing in 15th place, represent an opportunity – though Andoni Iraola’s injury-hit squad will be desperate to exploit any Liverpool fatigue following their midweek European exertions.
Historically, this fixture has been one-way traffic. Liverpool have won 12 of 13 Premier League meetings with the Cherries, including a 4-2 victory on opening day. With no fresh injury concerns from Marseille and Salah regaining sharpness, the visitors should have enough quality to secure maximum points on the south coast.
Meanwhile, manager Andoni Iraola has revealed in his pre-Liverpool press conference that his injury situation has not changed since their 1-1 draw with Brighton on Monday night besides Turkish striker Enes Unal:
“The team will be very similar to the one we had against Brighton. We lose Marcus Tavernier with the injury that you know,” the Spanish manager said.
“Straight away he felt it. It’s not the biggest of injures but it’s a muscle injury and we will see how it evolves. He will be out some time.”
“The only one from the players that were injured who could have a chance is Enes. Enes wants to try to today to train but I’m not sure if he’s going to be available or not. He is the only one who could have a chance.”
That means Justin Kluivert (knee), Ben Gannon-Doak (hamstring), Marcus Tavernier (hamstring), Will Dennis(ankle), and Julio Soler (knock) are all ruled out of the clash.
Liverpool will be without Alexander Isak, Conor Bradley, while Federico Chiesa has been dubbed with “50/50” chances by Arne Slot.
Want to get the latest Liverpool news direct to your phone? Join our WhatsApp community by clicking here.