Liverpool are back in action this Friday as they open their Premier League title defense against Bournemouth at Anfield.
After cruising to the trophy last season, the Reds now look to start strong under Arne Slot, with several new faces ready to make an impact.
The squad were put through an intense session at the AXA Training Center on Wednesday. From returning players to cheeky moments, there was plenty to catch the eye.
And with fans eager for clues ahead of opening night, training gave a few hints — and a few laughs.
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Key moments from Liverpool’s latest training session
Joe Gomez was the big talking point. The defender has been out for weeks with an Achilles issue, missing the Community Shield and final preseason games.
He’s now back with the group, though it’s unclear if he’ll make the matchday squad. Competition for his spot could heat up quickly, with Marc Guehi and Giovanni Leoni reportedly on Liverpool’s radar.
Hugo Ekitike also drew attention. The striker, who scored in the Community Shield, was seen finishing sharply in drills.
One clip shared online showed him cushioning a pass before slotting into the bottom corner. With the Alexander Isak transfer story still in the background, Ekitike could lead the line on Friday.
Kostas Tsimikas brought a touch of sunshine. Linked with a move to Nottingham Forest, the left-back arrived smiling and joking with teammates.
He’s previously admitted regular minutes elsewhere tempt him, but also says playing for Liverpool is a privilege he treasures.
And then there was Virgil van Dijk, proving that even captains enjoy a bit of showboating.
After a coach told him it was “impossible” to curl the ball into the net from behind the goal, Van Dijk nailed it seconds later. His response? A grinning: “What have you got to say?”
If training is anything to go by, Liverpool are warming up not just with drills, but with confidence. Bournemouth might need more than just a good press to stop them.
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