Analyzing Leicester City’s 3-1 loss to Liverpool in the Carabao Cup, looking at the approach, the performances of Maresca, Conor Coady, Harry Souttar and another goal from Kasey McAteer
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Enzo Maresca spoke very clearly before Leicester City’s away trip to Liverpool:
Their progress under his watch cannot be measured by their performance at Anfield, unlike the pre-season match against the Red Devils two months ago. One side is a competitive match and the other side is a friendly match on the other side of the world, which cannot be compared.
And yet, because of City and Maresca’s approach, the Carabao Cup tie on Merseyside felt more like a practice match than an actual match. Coaches often talk about judging their teams on merit, not results, but the scoreline here seemed more trivial than ever.
In goal, Kelleher will likely return in place of Brazilian international Alisson Becker. Players like Konate and Quansah could start at centre-back.
Stefan Bajcetic could play at right-back and Kostas Tsimikas, who just signed a new contract with the Red Devils, is expected to play at left-back.
In the center of the park, Japanese international Wataru Endo is unlikely to act as the main match-breaker.
Before Asian star Harvey Elliott and summer rookie, Ryan Gravenberch could start for Jurgen Klopp. In terms of attack, Ben Doak will likely replace Mohamed Salah on the right wing. On the other hand, Diogo Jota should return to replace Luis Diaz on the left wing.
Darwin Nunez will likely rest after starting the last 2 matches. Netherlands international Cody Gakpo is expected to return to the starting role in the number 9/false nine role against the Foxes.
Below is Liverpool’s predicted 4-3-3 lineup against Leicester City:
