Jurgen Klopp Makes Changes to Europa League Squad as Severity of Liverpool Injury Seemingly Confirmed

Liverpool’s return to European action sees them facing Sparta Praha in the Europa League on Thursday night. This marks their first Europa League appearance this year, having secured a top spot in the group stage and earned a bye through the Round of 32.

In light of this, Jürgen Klopp has confirms changes to the initial squad list. One player has been removed and another added. The ECHO confirms that veteran goalkeeper Adrián has joined Klopp’s squad, while Joël Matip has been omitted to make room for him.

This change seems to validate earlier suspicions about Matip’s injury, indicating that he may not return to play for Liverpool this season. His absence since sustaining an injury against Fulham in December suggests that he might have already played his last game for the club.

The Europa League campaign could potentially extend until May 22, with the final scheduled in Dublin. Meanwhile, the Premier League concludes the previous weekend, with the possibility of Klopp contending the FA Cup final the following weekend.

Matip, a significant figure since his arrival in Klopp’s first summer transfer window, had hints of a contract extension following his injury. However, no official announcement has been made yet.

The inclusion of Adrián raises interest from an injury perspective, especially with Klopp’s confirmation of Alisson’s serious injury. Although not deemed season-ending, Liverpool seek additional goalkeeper cover for the Europa League knockout rounds.

It’s been noted that besides Matip, there weren’t any notable senior omissions from the squad. With Matip potentially out for the remainder of the season, including Adrián in the squad seemed like a logical move. Notably, Ben Doak remains on the 23-man list without a specified timeline for his return from injury.

The expectation has persisted that Matip may not feature again this season, hinting at the possibility that his last appearance for Liverpool might have already occurred. Despite this, it was deemed sensible to exclude him from the Europa League squad, particularly given Alisson’s injury.

There’s a possibility that Adrián could be called upon during the competition, especially with Alisson sidelined, although Caoimhín Kelleher is expected to be the primary choice until Alisson’s return.