Liverpool are set to return to action tonight at Anfield when they face Southampton in the Carabao Cup, and all eyes are on how Arne Slot will shape his side for this domestic cup challenge. After the high intensity of the Merseyside derby against Everton where Liverpool secured a 2-1 victory, Slot is expected to rotate heavily, resting key names and handing valuable opportunities to fringe players and emerging talents. This match is not just about progression in the Carabao Cup but also about giving depth players and promising youngsters the platform to shine under the floodlights of Anfield.
The Dutch manager has already shown since his arrival that he is not afraid to trust youth, and with the Premier League campaign going strongly—Liverpool currently sitting at the top of the table—it is logical for Slot to protect senior stars such as Virgil van Dijk, Mohamed Salah, Dominik Szoboszlai, Ryan Gravenberch and Ibrahima Konaté. Instead, he is expected to blend experience with youthful energy, a combination that could provide fans with both excitement and unpredictability.
One of the biggest talking points ahead of tonight’s clash is the possibility of Liverpool’s record summer signing Alexander Isak starting up front. The £125 million striker has already begun to settle into life at Anfield, but Slot is keen to give him more minutes and rhythm, especially as he is expected to play a major role in Liverpool’s hunt for silverware this season. His inclusion would see him take the place of Hugo Ekitike, who has been leading the line in recent games. Fans will be eager to see how Isak adapts to the pace and physicality of English football in a competition where chances often come thick and fast.
Meanwhile, the defensive setup could see a fresh face. Giovanni Leoni, the 18-year-old Italian centre-back signed from Parma on deadline day for £26 million, might be handed his debut in red. Liverpool’s recruitment team spoke glowingly about his maturity and composure for such a young age, and the Carabao Cup provides the perfect stage to test him in a competitive fixture without the relentless pressure of the Premier League. Lining up alongside him may be Joe Gomez, a player who has struggled for regular game time in recent months but remains a trusted squad option. With Andy Robertson likely to captain the side at left-back, Liverpool’s backline could have a balance of youthful promise and seasoned reliability.
At right-back, Jeremie Frimpong’s return from injury could not come at a better time. The Dutch international, known for his pace and attacking intent, is eager to re-establish himself in the squad. His presence would give Liverpool dynamism down the flank and potentially unlock Southampton’s defense with overlapping runs and width.
Between the sticks, a change is almost certain. Georgi Mamardashvili, the Georgian goalkeeper who joined in the summer, is set to start. Alisson Becker has been rested, and Caoimhin Kelleher has already played in earlier fixtures, so this is a chance for Mamardashvili to show his quality in front of the Anfield crowd. For a goalkeeper, confidence and rhythm are crucial, and a Carabao Cup start will be vital in integrating him fully into Slot’s plans.
The midfield is where many fans expect to see the most experimentation. Curtis Jones is likely to be recalled, offering Liverpool creativity and energy. Alongside him, Wataru Endo is set to start, providing stability and balance in the middle of the park. Endo’s ability to break up play and recycle possession will be crucial against a Southampton side that will look to press high and counter quickly. Trey Nyoni, another teenager who impressed during pre-season, may also be given a chance to showcase his talent. Slot’s willingness to throw academy prospects into big fixtures signals his belief in their ability to handle pressure and grow through experience.
The attacking line may have a very different look compared to what fans saw at Goodison Park. Federico Chiesa, who has not featured regularly since his arrival, is expected to get a starting role. His technical ability and direct running can trouble Southampton’s defense, while youngster Rio Ngumoha is also pushing hard for a start. Ngumoha, only 17, scored the winner in a previous fixture and has been the subject of much excitement among supporters. His pace, fearlessness, and eye for goal could make him one of the standout names if given the opportunity tonight.
Jayden Danns is another youngster who might be involved. Having already made an impression in pre-season, Danns has shown promise as a natural forward with composure in front of goal. Slot could choose to involve him either from the bench or even in a surprise starting role to test his readiness.
All of this sets up a fascinating contest. Southampton may no longer be in the Premier League, but they remain a well-organized, ambitious side with plenty of talent who will see this competition as a realistic chance of success. For Liverpool, however, the Carabao Cup is both a trophy to target and a platform to grow depth. Slot’s approach to rotation shows that he wants to compete on all fronts without sacrificing the freshness and energy of his core players.
The predicted XI looks something like this: Mamardashvili in goal; Frimpong, Gomez, Leoni, and Robertson in defense; Nyoni, Jones, and Endo in midfield; with Chiesa, Ngumoha, and Isak forming the attacking trio.
Kick-off is set for 8pm BST at Anfield, a ground where the atmosphere on cup nights often inspires young players to deliver career-defining performances. Supporters will be watching closely to see which youngsters grab the spotlight, which new signings step up, and how Liverpool’s depth shapes up against strong opposition. The match will be broadcast live on ITV and Sky Sports, ensuring fans across the country can witness what promises to be another exciting chapter in Liverpool’s season under Arne Slot.
This Carabao Cup fixture may be only a step on the road to bigger prizes, but for several players, it could mark the beginning of something special. A debut, a first goal, or even just a solid performance could change the course of a season for those on the fringes. That is the magic of cup football, and at Anfield tonight, it is a chance for Liverpool’s next generation to write their own stories under the bright light
