Fri Oct 03 17:44:45 UTC 2025: ## Liverpool’s Title Defense Faces Chelsea Test Amidst Injury Woes

**London, United Kingdom** – Premier League champions Liverpool face a crucial test against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge this Saturday, October 3, at 5:30pm (16:30 GMT). Both teams enter the match seeking to bounce back from recent defeats.

Liverpool, under new manager Arne Slot, are looking to recover after suffering back-to-back losses against Crystal Palace and Galatasaray. Slot acknowledged that teams are adapting to their playing style and aims to improve efficiency at set pieces as a response. He also confirmed that first-choice goalkeeper Alisson will miss the match due to an injury sustained in the Champions League fixture, with Giorgi Mamardashvili stepping in.

Chelsea, managed by Enzo Maresca, are aiming to leverage their recent Champions League win against Benfica to propel their Premier League form. However, red card issues and a lengthy injury list, including key defenders and forwards, have hampered their progress.

Despite Chelsea’s struggles, Maresca remains optimistic, stating that his team will “be there and close” to challenging Liverpool’s dominance.

The match marks the 199th meeting between the two clubs. Chelsea won their last meeting in May, ending a run of ten games without a win against Liverpool.

**Projected Lineups:**

* **Chelsea:** Sanchez; James, Acheampong, Badiashile, Cucurella; Fernandez, Caicedo; Estevao, Buonanotte, Neto; Pedro
* **Liverpool:** Mamardashvili; Frimpong, Konate, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Mac Allister, Gravenberch; Salah, Szoboszlai, Gakpo; Isak

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