Why Liverpool Is Playing Two Matches In A Day After Arne Slot Explanation

Liverpool is set to wrap up their pre-season preparations with a unique double-header at Anfield on Sunday, where they will face La Liga sides Sevilla and Las Palmas. In an unusual arrangement, the Reds will play two matches on the same day, with only the fixture against Sevilla open to the public.

The first match, against Sevilla, is scheduled for 12:30 pm BST, while the second, against Las Palmas, will take place later at 5:30 pm BST behind closed doors. This double-header is part of Liverpool’s final preparation before they kick off their Premier League campaign next weekend against Ipswich Town.

The decision to schedule two games on the same day was made to ensure that as many players as possible could get valuable minutes on the pitch before the season begins. With a 26-man squad having trained on Friday, it’s expected that most players will feature in one of the two matches, with each likely to play around 45 minutes. However, it’s unlikely that any player will participate in both matches.

The more challenging of the two opponents, Sevilla, who finished 14th in La Liga last season, will likely face Liverpool’s stronger lineup. Sevilla, known for their success in the Europa League, also have a familiar face in their squad—former Liverpool winger Suso.

Las Palmas, who finished just one point behind Sevilla in La Liga, will be Liverpool’s second opponent of the day. Despite playing behind closed doors, this match is still significant, especially with Las Palmas’ recent acquisition of former Manchester United winger Adnan Januzaj from Sevilla, who will be eager to make an impact against Liverpool.

Overall, this double-header provides a final opportunity for Liverpool to fine-tune their tactics and get their players in peak condition ahead of the Premier League opener.