Inter Milan host Liverpool in the standout tie of the sixth Champions League gameweek. The recent form of the two sides couldn’t be more different; Inter are firmly in the Serie A title race whereas Liverpool are in the midst of a crisis on and off the pitch.
Who makes the combined XI though? We’re considering both squads at full strength and without injuries, but factoring in recent form.
GK: Alisson (Liverpool)
His absence through injury was been a major contributing factor behind Liverpool’s sharp decline. Since joining in 2018, Alisson has established himself among the very best of goalkeepers. Inter’s veteran Yann Sommer is still capable of pulling off some ridiculous reaction saves, but Alisson gets the nod between the sticks.
RCB: Ibrahima Konaté (Liverpool)
Not in the best form at the moment, but over the previous couple of seasons has formed an impressive partnership with Virgil van Dijk. Konate’s contract is set to expire next summer; the uncertainty over his future doesn’t appear to be helping his performances on the pitch. Just about gets in ahead of Manuel Akanji.
CB: Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool)
At the beginning of the season, the big Dutchman would have been a certainty in any combined XI. Whether a temporary blip in form or the beginning of a decline, van Dijk is yet to hit the same commanding heights of the previous seasons. As with his centre-back partner, it is his previous performances rather than his current form that justifies his selection ahead of Inter’s stalwart Francesco Acerbi.
LCB: Alessandro Bastoni (Inter)
A truly world-class defender who remains underrated outside of Italy. Bastoni is perfectly suited to the left centre-back role within Chivu’s 3-5-2; comfortable in possession yet strong in a tackle. On the transfer wishlists of many clubs across Europe.
RM: Denzel Dumfries (Inter)
As much as Jeremie Frimpong is at his best as a wing-back / wide midfielder, it is his Dutch compatriot Dumfries who earns the spot here. The Inter star was nominated for the 2025 Ballon d’Or but will be a big miss in tonight’s clash following an ankle injury sustained early in November.
RCM: Dominik Szoboszlai (Liverpool)
One of the few Liverpool players to have played well in recent weeks. Having excelled centrally, Slot has deployed the Hungarian on the right in place of Mohamed Salah, favouring Szoboszlai’s work rate and defensive contributions.
CM: Ryan Gravenberch (Liverpool)
Arne Slot’s side often look stronger and more organised with Ryan Gravenberch in the starting XI. Still only 23, the Dutch midfielder is a composed and tidy presence in the middle of the park. Hakan Çalhanoğlu is unlucky to miss out.
LCM: Nicolò Barella (Inter)
Often linked with a move to Liverpool, Barella continues to impress for Inter. With an impeccable technique, close control and work rate, the diminutive Italian has long been the best midfielder in Serie A. In the conversation alongside Vitinha and Pedri regarding who is the best central midfielder in the world, a level above Liverpool’s Alexis Mac Allister.
LM: Federico Dimarco (Inter)
The best player in the world for the left-sided wing-back / midfield position. Dimarco is a vital creative cog in Inter’s transitional play, whilst offering defensive discipline and stability. Would walk into any team playing either a 3 or 5 at the back formation, and is easily ahead of the aging Andy Robertson or Milos Kerkez, who is yet to settle at Anfield.
RST: Lautaro Martinez (Inter)
Inter’s captain is undoubtedly their talisman, a regular source of goals and the man for big games. Will be a handful for the out-of-sorts Liverpool defence tonight; Martinez will be hoping to add to his tally of 25 Champions League goals. Isak is yet to justify his €145m fee.
LST: Hugo Ekitiké (Liverpool)
The best performing of any of Liverpool’s expensive summer purchases, despite only scoring 8 in 21 games across all competitions to date. The Frenchman’s all-around game has endeared him to the Anfield faithful, and justifies his selection above fellow French striker Marcus Thuram, who too has 8 goals this season across all competitions.
