Liverpool will look to continue their strong start to the 2026/27 Premier League season when they welcome Brighton & Hove Albion to Anfield on Sunday, October 25, 2026.
The encounter is expected to be a difficult test for Andoni Iraola’s side, given Brighton’s impressive performances so far this season. The Seagulls recently recorded a convincing 3-0 victory over Arsenal and have been particularly dangerous in front of goal, scoring 23 times in their opening seven Premier League fixtures.
Iraola will likely encourage his players to approach the game with an attacking mindset rather than sit back defensively, as that could allow Liverpool to dictate proceedings. However, the Spanish manager could face some difficult decisions when selecting his starting lineup, particularly in the right-wing position.
Rio Ngumoha delivered an outstanding performance in Liverpool’s recent victory over Villarreal, causing the opposition defence plenty of problems. However, Cody Gakpo is also back in full form and is pushing for a starting place against Brighton.
With Bradley Barcola occupying the left-wing position, Iraola may have to choose between Gakpo and Ngumoha on the opposite flank. Despite the teenager’s impressive recent display, many Liverpool supporters believe the Dutch international should get the nod against the Seagulls, as reflected in several reactions on Reddit.
Arcuran: “People won’t like it, but I would start Gakpo over Rio. Love the kid, but let’s not overplay him at such a young age, or he will end up like so many others.”
Bosscher47: “Agree. Gakpo is much better at getting back and throwing his body into a tackle. I would bring Rio in later against tired legs.”
Luke_4686: “We need to be careful with Rio’s minutes. He either starts here or in the cup against Chelsea, not both, so probably Gakpo in for this one.”
Visionary785: “I’d keep Rio on the bench as a game-changing substitution. Gakpo to start on the right for me. The rest of the team is pretty fixed.”
