The Premier League is finally back, with defending champions Liverpool taking on up-and-coming Bournemouth on the Friday fixture at Anfield.
Liverpool have suffered tragedy this summer
Liverpool is still in the process of mourning their player Diogo Jota, who tragically died in a car accident last month. We do not know how it will affect Arne Slot's squad, but they could be galvanised to keep on performing for their friend.
Jota was a key player for the Reds, and his loss is huge. Liverpool has spent big in strengthening their side this summer. Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike, Milos Kerkez, and Jeremie Frimpong have all arrived at Anfield for large fees.
The Reds' campaign has already started with a defeat on penalties to Crystal Palace in the Community Shield. Slot's side will want to put that game behind them as quickly as possible if they are to defend their Premier League title.
Bournemouth have sold some key players this window
Bournemouth were one of the surprise packages of the Premier League last season. However, they fell away late on and ended up finishing ninth. As a result of their success, Bournemouth have ended up selling many of their top players. Kerkez, Illia Zabarnyi, and Dean Huijsen have all departed for top European sides.
Andoni Iraola's side has been able to spend some of the profit they have made. This has included signing Bafodé Diakité, Djordje Petrovic, and Adrien Truffert. However, it remains to be seen if the Cherries will be able to emulate their side of last season.
Team news and predicted lineups
Slot will likely field the same side that played at Wembley last weekend.
Liverpool predicted lineup: Alisson, Frimpong, Konaté, Van Dijk, Kerkez, Wirtz, Szoboszlai, Jones, Salah, Ekitike, Gakpo
Bournemouth drew 0-0 with Real Sociedad in their last pre-season friendly, and we can expect to see a similar side that faced the La Liga side.
Bournemouth predicted line up: Petrović, Truffert, Senesi, Hill, Araujo, Adams, Winterburn, Semenyo, Tavernier, Brooks, Kroupi
Historical context and prediction
Bournemouth does not have the best record against Liverpool, having beaten them just twice in their history. The Reds have beaten the Cherries 18 times, and only twice have fixtures between the two ended in a draw.
Liverpool have won their last five games against Bournemouth, so we can expect to see a Reds victory. At home and in front of an emotional fanbase that will be paying tribute to Jota, Slot's side should win 2-0.
How to watch Liverpool vs. Bournemouth
Liverpool will take on Bournemouth at 3:00 p.m. ET on Friday, Aug. 15. The match will be televised on USA Network, Universo, and can be streamed on Fubo.tv (free seven-day trial).