Atletico Madrid XI vs Liverpool – Predicted lineup and team news

Atlético Madrid is set to take on Liverpool in their first UEFA Champions League encounter of the season at Anfield. The Spanish team, led by manager Diego Simeone, arrives after a strong start to the La Liga campaign but faced a setback in their last match with a 3-0 loss to Athletic Bilbao. Defensive issues are a concern for Simeone, who considers this a necessary wake-up call for his squad.

Key absences include forward Alexander Sørloth due to a muscle injury and winger Arnau Ortiz serving an administrative suspension from his previous club. Manager Simeone also revealed that Julián Álvarez, the team's star forward, will not start due to missed training sessions and Jonathan David will start on the bench. In goal, Jan Oblak will lead the side, while Pablo Barrios and Morten Hjulmand will form the midfield to support the creative playmakers Ademola Lookman and Alex Baena.

The clash is scheduled to kick off at 8pm BST on Wednesday, 8th September. Fans can catch all the action live in the UK on TNT Sports 1 and TNT Sports Ultimate.