Liverpool vs Chelsea EPL 2026 Gameweek 36: Predicted XI, Injury News, Team Form & Match Preview
The Premier League 2026 season is entering its final and most intense phase, and Gameweek 36 brings one of English football’s biggest rivalries as Liverpool F.C. host Chelsea F.C. at Anfield.
With Champions League qualification still hanging in the balance for Liverpool and Chelsea fighting to salvage pride after a disappointing campaign, this clash promises drama, intensity, and high-pressure football.
Liverpool enter the fixture with stronger momentum and home advantage, while Chelsea arrive under pressure after a poor run of form in recent weeks.
Liverpool vs Chelsea Match Details
| Match | Liverpool vs Chelsea |
|---|---|
| Tournament | Premier League 2026 |
| Gameweek | 36 |
| Venue | Anfield, Liverpool |
| Date | May 2026 |
| Kick-off Time | 12:30 PM BST |
| Live Streaming | Official EPL Broadcast Partners |
Current Premier League Standings
Liverpool are currently fighting for a top-four finish, while Chelsea are struggling in the mid-table positions after inconsistent performances throughout the season.
Liverpool know that every point matters now. A win against Chelsea could significantly strengthen their UEFA Champions League qualification hopes.
Chelsea, meanwhile, are desperate to stop their losing streak and end the season on a positive note.
Liverpool Team Form Ahead of Gameweek 36
Liverpool have looked dangerous at Anfield this season despite injury setbacks. Their attacking structure under pressure situations has remained effective, especially in home games.
Liverpool Recent Form
- Loss vs Manchester United
- Win vs Crystal Palce
- Win vs Everton
- Win vs Fulham
- Loss vs Brighton
The Reds have shown resilience in big matches and continue to dominate possession-based football with quick transitions.
The absence of Mohamed Salah is undoubtedly a major setback, but players like Florian Wirtz, Cody Gakpo, and Dominik Szoboszlai have stepped up in recent weeks.
Chelsea Team Form Ahead of Gameweek 36
Chelsea’s campaign has been filled with inconsistency. Injuries, lack of finishing, and defensive mistakes have hurt their season badly.
Chelsea Recent Form
- Loss vs Everton
- Loss vs Manchester City
- Loss vs Manchester United
- Loss vs Brighton
- Loss vs Nottingham Forest
Despite poor results, Chelsea still possess talented individuals capable of changing games instantly.
Cole Palmer remains their biggest creative threat, while Enzo Fernández and Moisés Caicedo continue to control midfield battles.
Liverpool Injury Updates
Liverpool will miss several key players heading into this match.
Ruled Out
- Mohamed Salah
- Wataru Endō
- Conor Bradley
- Hugo Ekitiké
Doubtful
- Alexander Isak
- Alisson Becker
- Ibrahima Konaté
The absence of Salah changes Liverpool’s attacking dynamics significantly. More responsibility will now fall on Cody Gakpo and Florian Wirtz in the final third.
Chelsea Injury Updates
Chelsea are also dealing with multiple injury concerns before traveling to Anfield.
Ruled Out
- Robert Sánchez
- Mykhailo Mudryk
- Jamie Gittens
- Estevão Willian
Doubtful
- Pedro Neto
- Alejandro Garnacho
Chelsea’s attacking depth has suffered heavily due to injuries and suspensions.
Predicted Playing XI: Liverpool
Liverpool Predicted XI (4-2-3-1)
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| GK | Giorgi Mamardashvili |
| RB | Curtis Jones |
| CB | Virgil van Dijk |
| CB | Ibrahima Konaté |
| LB | Milos Kerkez |
| CDM | Ryan Gravenberch |
| CDM | Alexis Mac Allister |
| RW | Jeremie Frimpong |
| CAM | Dominik Szoboszlai |
| LW | Florian Wirtz |
| ST | Cody Gakpo |
Key Players for Liverpool
- Florian Wirtz
- Cody Gakpo
- Virgil van Dijk
- Alexis Mac Allister
Liverpool are expected to rely heavily on width and fast transitions. Frimpong’s pace on the right side could become one of the biggest weapons against Chelsea’s defensive setup.
Predicted Playing XI: Chelsea
Chelsea Predicted XI (4-2-3-1)
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| GK | Filip Jörgensen |
| RB | Reece James |
| CB | Levi Colwill |
| CB | Trevoh Chalobah |
| LB | Marc Cucurella |
| CDM | Moisés Caicedo |
| CDM | Roméo Lavia |
| RW | Cole Palmer |
| CAM | Enzo Fernández |
| LW | João Pedro |
| ST | Liam Delap |
Key Players for Chelsea
- Cole Palmer
- Enzo Fernández
- Moisés Caicedo
- Reece James
Chelsea are expected to stay compact defensively and attempt counter-attacks through Palmer and João Pedro.
Head-to-Head Record
Liverpool and Chelsea have shared one of the most competitive rivalries in English football over the last two decades.
Last 5 Meetings
| Result | Competition |
|---|---|
| Liverpool 2-1 Chelsea | EPL |
| Chelsea 1-1 Liverpool | EPL |
| Liverpool 1-0 Chelsea | Carabao Cup |
| Chelsea 0-0 Liverpool | EPL |
| Liverpool 1-1 Chelsea | EPL |
Many recent meetings between these two clubs have ended in draws, showing how closely matched they often are tactically.
Tactical Battle to Watch
Liverpool’s Press vs Chelsea’s Midfield Control
One of the biggest battles in this game will be Liverpool’s aggressive pressing system against Chelsea’s double pivot of Caicedo and Lavia.
Liverpool are expected to press high from the beginning at Anfield. Chelsea, on the other hand, may attempt to slow the game and create space through patient buildup play.
Florian Wirtz vs Chelsea Defense
Without Salah, Florian Wirtz becomes Liverpool’s main creative outlet.
His movement between the lines and ability to create chances could trouble Chelsea’s backline throughout the match.
Cole Palmer’s Creative Role
Chelsea’s attack largely depends on Cole Palmer. If Liverpool fail to contain him between midfield and defense, Chelsea could create dangerous counter-attacking opportunities.
Players to Watch
Florian Wirtz (Liverpool)
The German playmaker has become Liverpool’s most creative player in recent matches. His vision, dribbling, and passing make him a constant threat.
Cody Gakpo (Liverpool)
Expected to lead the line in Salah’s absence, Gakpo’s finishing ability will be crucial.
Cole Palmer (Chelsea)
Chelsea’s best attacking performer this season. Palmer’s creativity can change games instantly.
Enzo Fernández (Chelsea)
His midfield control and passing range will be key if Chelsea want to dominate possession phases.
Match Prediction
Liverpool appear stronger heading into this contest due to:
- Better form
- Home advantage
- Stronger attacking rhythm
- Chelsea’s recent losing streak
Chelsea still possess quality players capable of producing moments of brilliance, but consistency remains a major issue.
Predicted Score
Liverpool 2-1 Chelsea
Liverpool are likely to dominate possession and create more clear-cut chances at Anfield.
Fantasy Football Tips
Captain Choices
- Florian Wirtz
- Cody Gakpo
- Cole Palmer
Differential Picks
- Jeremie Frimpong
- Roméo Lavia
- Milos Kerkez
Avoid
- Chelsea defenders due to Liverpool’s home attacking strength
Why This Match Matters
This game could define Liverpool’s Champions League hopes for next season.
For Chelsea, it represents an opportunity to regain confidence and prove they can compete against elite opposition despite a difficult season.
The atmosphere at Anfield, tactical intensity, and pressure on both teams make this one of the biggest fixtures of EPL 2026 Gameweek 36.
FAQs
When is Liverpool vs Chelsea EPL 2026 Gameweek 36?
The match will be played in May 2026 during Premier League Gameweek 36 at Anfield.
Who is injured for Liverpool?
Mohamed Salah, Wataru Endō, Conor Bradley, and Hugo Ekitiké are expected to miss the match.
Who is injured for Chelsea?
Robert Sánchez, Jamie Gittens, Estevão Willian, and Mykhailo Mudryk are unavailable.
What is the predicted score for Liverpool vs Chelsea?
Liverpool are predicted to win 2-1 based on current form and home advantage.
Who are the key players to watch?
Florian Wirtz, Cody Gakpo, Cole Palmer, and Enzo Fernández are expected to play important roles.
