Unveiling Liverpool's new attack: Wirtz and Isak step up as Ekitike faces 5 month sideline

Liverpool forward Alexander Isak and playmaker Florian Wirtz have both been named in the starting lineup for the club's final pre season fixture in the United States against Leeds United at Soldier Field.

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A New-Look lineup in Chicago

The friendly encounter in Chicago marks the first summer appearances for both Isak and Wirtz as Liverpool wrap up their pre season tour of North America.

Georgian goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili starts in goal behind a defensive line featuring Milos Kerkez, Jeremie Frimpong, Trevan Nyoni and Luke Chambers.

In midfield, Wirtz operates alongside Dominik Szoboszlai, Kieran Morrison and Ndokwei while Isak leads the attack together with young prospect Rio Ngumoha.

Ekitike Injury blow and bench depth

Dutch midfielder Ryan Gravenberch named on the bench alongside senior figures including Federico Chiesa, Curtis Jones, Harvey Elliott and Kostas Tsimikas.

Prior to kick off, the club shared lighthearted social media footage of Hugo Ekitike dancing in front of his teammates. However, the French forward will play no part in the fixture after suffering an Achilles tendon injury that is expected to sideline him for at least five months.

Tactical integration

Integrating high-profile additions like Wirtz and Isak into the attacking system is a top priority before competitive action resumes. Wirtz's creative presence between the lines, combined with Isak's direct movement behind opposition defences, gives the squad a significantly higher attacking ceiling.

However, Ekitike's long term layoff highlights the importance of keeping Isak fully fit during the opening months of the season.

Khaled Hegazy |

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Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.

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