Liverpool could play surprise summer fixture in Kenya
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Liverpool will step up their pre-season preparations for next season with a series of friendly matches. Image Credits: Imago ImagesLiverpool have already confirmed plans for a pre-season tour of the United States this summer as manager Arne Slot seeks to prepare his squad for the 2026/27 campaign.The Reds are scheduled to play three friendlies in late July and early August against Sunderland, Wrexham and Leeds United, with matches set to take place in Nashville, New York and Chicago.The tour begins on July 25 against Sunderland, just days after the end of the World Cup final on July 19, which could impact player availability if several first-team stars go deep into the tournament.As many as 11 Liverpool players could be involved at the World Cup, representing nations including England, France, Argentina and the Netherlands.Some players such as Dominik Szoboszlai and Milos Kerkez are expected to be available as Hungary did not qualify, while others may return early depending on their international progress.The scheduling could also influence Liverpool’s transfer activity, with potential signings possibly delayed until after the tournament.
Slot and his staff may also look to integrate academy players during the tour as they manage squad fitness ahead of the new season.According to SPORT’s Carlos Monfort, Liverpool could face La Liga giants Barcelona in Nairobi on August 8 as part of their pre-season schedule.It would be a high-profile clash, with the two sides not meeting since Liverpool’s famous 4-0 comeback win at Anfield in the 2019 UEFA Champions League semi-final.An alternative option being considered by Barcelona is a fixture in Morocco on August 5 against a local opponent, given its logistical convenience. Barcelona would then move on to their traditional season curtain-raiser, the Joan Gamper Trophy, after completing their pre-season plans.Liverpool, meanwhile, head into their trip to Manchester United at Old Trafford this weekend still chasing Champions League qualification.Arne Slot’s side have been dealing with an injury-hit run-in, with players such as Alisson Becker and Hugo Ekitike facing spells on the sidelines, but results have remained strong.Liverpool have won their last three league matches and could boost their standing further with a positive result against United.
The Reds also have a decent recent record at Old Trafford, losing just twice in their last six visits in all competitions.Manchester United won the reverse fixture at Anfield last October 2-1, with goals from Bryan Mbeumo and Harry Maguire, and Liverpool will be looking to avenge that result this weekend.