Liverpool return to Anfield needing a strong response against Galatasaray as they look to overturn a first-leg deficit and secure a place in the Champions League quarter-finals.
Arne Slot’s side have been handed a timely fitness boost ahead of the decisive clash, with key players returning at a crucial stage of the season.
Ibrahima Konaté boost ahead of Galatasaray clash
Liverpool have received positive news on Ibrahima Konaté, who is now fit and available after concerns over a hamstring issue.
The centre-back was an unused substitute in the draw against Tottenham, but Arne Slot has confirmed he is ready to start.
“Yeah, he is at this moment of time [ready to play],” Slot said ahead of the game.
“The day after the game is recovery… he is declared completely fit, he doesn’t feel the discomfort anymore.”
His return is a major boost as Liverpool aim to improve defensively after conceding in the first leg.
Liverpool injury news and team selection decisions
While Konaté is available, Joe Gomez remains a doubt after missing training and will face a late fitness test.
There is better news in goal, with Alisson Becker set to return after missing the trip to Istanbul.
Liverpool are still without several players, with Alexander Isak not yet ready to return despite resuming individual training. Conor Bradley, Wataru Endo and Giovanni Leoni also remain sidelined.
Predicted Liverpool XI vs Galatasaray
Slot is expected to stick with a 4-2-3-1 system, with a few key decisions in attack and at right-back.
Dominik Szoboszlai could continue at right-back, allowing Florian Wirtz to operate in a central attacking role.
Mohamed Salah is expected to return to the starting XI after being benched against Tottenham, while Hugo Ekitike is likely to lead the line.
Predicted XI (4-2-3-1):
Alisson; Szoboszlai, Konaté, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Mac Allister, Gravenberch; Salah, Wirtz, Gakpo; Ekitike
Key match details
- Fixture: Liverpool vs Galatasaray
- Competition: Champions League (Last 16, second leg)
- Date: Wednesday, March 18, 2026
- Kick-off: 8pm GMT
- Venue: Anfield
- TV: TNT Sports
What Liverpool need to progress
Liverpool must overturn a first-leg deficit after losing in Istanbul, meaning a strong attacking performance will be required at Anfield.
With key players returning and a full-strength attacking lineup expected, Slot’s side will aim to take control early and apply pressure on Galatasaray.
Key Insights
- Ibrahima Konaté is fit and available for Liverpool.
- Alisson Becker returns in goal for the second leg.
- Joe Gomez remains a doubt ahead of the match.
- Mohamed Salah is expected to return to the starting XI.
- Liverpool must overturn a first-leg deficit to progress.
Can Liverpool complete the comeback and reach the Champions League quarter-finals?
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