Liverpool are facing a defensive crisis ahead of their Champions League match against Qarabag at Anfield on Wednesday, January 28, 2026. With several key defenders sidelined, midfielder Wataru Endo is likely to fill in at centre-back alongside Virgil van Dijk.

The Reds' injury woes deepened after their recent 3-2 defeat to Bournemouth in the Premier League, where Joe Gomez was forced off the pitch due to a knee injury sustained in a collision with goalkeeper Alisson Becker. Manager Arne Slot was unable to provide a clear prognosis on Gomez's condition, stating that it was a bone-on-bone contact and it was immediately clear Gomez could not continue. Slot is unsure whether Gomez will be able to train in the next few days.

Adding to the defensive concerns, Ibrahima Konate remains unavailable due to compassionate leave following the death of his father. Slot has confirmed that the French defender has been given time to be with his family.

The injury list also includes long-term absentees such as right-back Conor Bradley, who is out for the season with a knee injury. Summer signing Giovanni Leoni is also sidelined for the remainder of the season with a cruciate ligament injury.

In attack, Alexander Isak is expected to miss several months after breaking his leg in a match against Tottenham. Federico Chiesa's fitness also remains in doubt. However, Chiesa did return to training on Tuesday.

With limited options in central defence, Wataru Endo is likely to partner Virgil van Dijk. The 32-year-old Japanese international has had limited game time this season, with most appearances coming in the Carabao Cup.

Despite the injury crisis, Liverpool need a win against Qarabag to secure their place in the Champions League knockout stages and avoid a play-off game. A win would guarantee a top-eight finish in the league phase.

Qarabag, while being the underdogs, have had some notable results in the Champions League this season, including a 3-2 win against Eintracht Frankfurt. Liverpool will need to be wary of the Azerbaijani side's attacking threat, despite their own defensive vulnerabilities.

Predicted Liverpool lineup (4-2-3-1): Alisson; Jeremie Frimpong, Endo, Van Dijk, Andy Robertson; Alexis Mac Allister, Ryan Gravenberch; Mohamed Salah, Dominik Szoboszlai, Cody Gakpo; Hugo Ekitike.