Predicted Liverpool XI vs Fenerbahce: Tsimikas and Gravenberch Start

Liverpool travel to Fenerbahce on Wednesday evening for matchday four of the Champions League league phase. Andoni Iraola's side, one of five teams with a 100% record, are expected to recall Kostas Tsimikas and Ryan Gravenberch as they look to bounce back from their 1-0 Premier League defeat to Arsenal.

  • Kick-off: Wednesday 17:45 UK time
  • Venue: Sukru Saracoglu Stadium, Istanbul
  • Competition: Champions League league phase, matchday four
  • Headline selection: Kostas Tsimikas and Ryan Gravenberch are expected to start
  • At stake: Liverpool aim to maintain their 100% start to the league phase
  • Recent form: Lost 1-0 to Arsenal at Anfield in the Premier League last weekend

Predicted line-ups

Liverpool (4-2-3-1)

Starting XI: Alisson Becker; Ronald Araujo, [two centre-backs], Kostas Tsimikas; Ryan Gravenberch, Alexis Mac Allister; Cody Gakpo, Florian Wirtz, Bradley Barcola; Alexander Isak.

Substitutes: Dominik Szoboszlai, Trey Nyoni, Milos Kerkez, Lewis Koumas, [other squad players].

Selection notes

Kostas Tsimikas could replace Milos Kerkez at left-back, a position Andoni Iraola has often rotated. Ryan Gravenberch is expected to come into the double pivot alongside Alexis Mac Allister, replacing Trey Nyoni, who impressed against Arsenal. Dominik Szoboszlai, recently back from injury, may start on the bench again. Cody Gakpo is set to continue on the right flank, with Bradley Barcola on the left. Alexander Isak is expected to lead the line as the sole striker, ahead of Lewis Koumas. Ronald Araujo has consolidated the right-back spot due to injuries to Jeremie Frimpong and Conor Bradley.

Why Iraola is turning to Tsimikas and Gravenberch

Andoni Iraola's expected changes signal a shift towards control and freshness for a difficult away trip. Kostas Tsimikas offers a more defensively solid option at left-back than Milos Kerkez, which could be crucial against Fenerbahce's home crowd. In midfield, Ryan Gravenberch provides physicality and composure next to Alexis Mac Allister, likely needed to counter Fenerbahce's intensity.

The continued use of Cody Gakpo on the right and Bradley Barcola on the left suggests Iraola wants inverted wingers to stretch the Turkish side's defence. Florian Wirtz in the number 10 role will be key to unlocking a compact backline. Alexander Isak as the sole striker means Liverpool will rely on quick transitions and through balls.

Defensively, Ronald Araujo's presence at right-back is a testament to his recent form and the absence of Jeremie Frimpong and Conor Bradley. The Uruguayan's physicality will be tested by Fenerbahce's wide players. Alisson Becker retains his place, providing experience and shot-stopping quality in a hostile environment.

Talking points

  • Should Tsimikas start over Kerkez? The Greek offers reliability, but Kerkez's attacking thrust might be missed in a must-win game.
  • Gravenberch's inclusion over Nyoni is a bold call—Nyoni impressed against Arsenal, so dropping him could affect morale.
  • Is Isak isolated up front? Without a strike partner, he'll need support from Wirtz and the wingers to avoid being marked out.
  • Szoboszlai on the bench again—is he fully fit? His creativity could be vital if Liverpool need a goal late on.

What happens next

Liverpool face Fenerbahce on Wednesday at 17:45 UK time. A win would maintain their perfect Champions League start and build momentum before the next Premier League fixture. A defeat could raise questions about Iraola's rotation policy and squad depth.

Frequently asked questions

Is Kostas Tsimikas starting for Liverpool vs Fenerbahce?

Yes, Kostas Tsimikas is expected to start at left-back, replacing Milos Kerkez.

Who is Liverpool's striker against Fenerbahce?

Alexander Isak is predicted to start as the sole striker, ahead of Lewis Koumas.

What time is Liverpool vs Fenerbahce kick-off?

The match kicks off at 17:45 UK time on Wednesday at the Sukru Saracoglu Stadium.

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