Atlético backs defence with Cuti Romero at Anfield
On September 7, 2026 at 12:04, Simeone announced the lineup that will take Atlético to its European debut at Anfield, with Cuti Romero and Julián Álvarez included in the starting eleven after the 3‑0 victory at San Mamés.
The agencies' photo shows Grimaldo and Kang‑In Lee leaving the eleven that played at San Mamés; Simeone keeps the 4‑4‑2 formation for the clash against Liverpool this Wednesday in the Champions League.
Defensive and offensive adjustments
In goal remains Oblak, while Llorente and Hancko occupy the full‑backs and the centre‑back pairing is formed by Cuti Romero and Pubill. In midfield appear Lookman, Hjulmand, Barrios and Giuliano, and the attacking duo is composed of Baena and Julián Álvarez.
The system has not changed compared to the matches against Sevilla and San Mamés; the only changes are in names. Grimaldo, who played as left‑back, and Kang‑In Lee, who operated centrally, are out, and a centre‑back and a striker come in.
Simeone reshuffles the defensive line and rebuilds the attack for the match that opens the league phase of the Champions League, according to the official schedule.
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Historical context at Anfield
The addition of Cuti Romero is the move with the greatest defensive implication; the Argentine, one of the most experienced centre‑backs on the market and a summer signing, makes his European debut in the red‑and‑white shirt in a setting where any mistake is costly.
Julián Álvarez's return to the eleven has another reading: it is the first gesture of normality after a long summer of uncertainty about his future, and it comes in one of the most important matches on the calendar, with no dosage involved. His 57 appearances and 20 goals from last season back the decision.
Anfield is the stadium with the most recent memory for Atlético. Marcos Llorente has scored four goals in two visits: the brace in March 2020 that eliminated the champion Liverpool and the one in September 2025, which did not prevent the 3‑2 defeat with Van Dijk's header in added time. That 2020 victory remains Atlético's last win at the stadium.
The context of this season is worse than back then. Simeone's return to Anfield comes after the worst start‑of‑season result, and with two players who did not start on Saturday in the heart of the team. Wednesday night serves more as a character test than as just another fixture on the European calendar.