Liverpool Possible XI vs Burnley: Arne Slot’s £241m Gamble as Conor Bradley Returns and Alexander Isak Joins the Reds
Liverpool return to Premier League action after the international break, and the buildup to the Burnley clash has been dominated by two storylines: the comeback of Conor Bradley and the shock arrival of Alexander Isak. Arne Slot now has a £241m decision to make on how to fit his stars into a balanced but ruthless XI.
The addition of Isak, signed in a blockbuster late move, has completely changed Liverpool’s attacking picture. The Swedish striker arrives at Anfield with a reputation as one of the deadliest finishers in the league, and fans are already dreaming of how he will combine with Mohamed Salah and new creative star Florian Wirtz.
Slot’s £241m Dilemma
Liverpool’s squad depth is now staggering, with a combined value of more than £241m sitting in competition for starting places. The midfield alone is packed with options. Alexis Mac Allister offers control, Dominik Szoboszlai brings energy and creativity, while Ryan Gravenberch is pushing for more game time despite suspension recently slowing his rhythm. Harvey Elliott is also knocking on the door after a strong run of form.
But the real buzz is in attack. Slot has boldly shifted his forward line, with Florian Wirtz set to play in a creative role behind the front three. Now with Isak through the middle, Salah cutting in from the right, and Díaz stretching defenders on the left, Liverpool suddenly boast one of the most frightening trios in the league.
Bradley’s Big Chance
Another major boost comes with the return of Conor Bradley, who is ready to fight for his place again. With Jeremie Frimpong still working back from injury, Slot may trust Bradley at right-back to bring intensity, energy, and stability against Burnley’s physical approach. The 21-year-old impressed last season with his fearless defending and overlapping runs, and his hunger to reclaim a starting spot could be vital.
Predicted XI vs Burnley
GK: Alisson Becker
DEF: Conor Bradley, Ibrahima Konaté, Virgil van Dijk, Andy Robertson
MID: Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai, Ryan Gravenberch
ATT: Mohamed Salah, Alexander Isak, Florian Wirtz
The Verdict
This lineup is worth more than £241m in transfer fees, but Slot knows the real value lies in chemistry. The Isak signing has transformed Liverpool’s attack overnight, while the inclusion of Wirtz gives them a creative edge they’ve lacked at times. Add in the return of Bradley, and suddenly the Reds look fresher, sharper, and hungrier than ever.
The Burnley game will be more than a post-international restart—it’s a statement of Slot’s vision. If Isak delivers on his debut and Wirtz links the play as expected, Liverpool may have just found the formula to chase the Premier League crown.