Liverpool kick-off their bid to retain their Champions League crown on Tuesday night when they travel to Carlo Ancelotti’s Napoli.
Jurgen Klopp’s men will face familiar opponents in the Serie A outfit, having been placed in Liverpool’s group last year, too.
Napoli caused Liverpool many problems both home and away – the Reds’ opening defeat in the Champions League group stage came against Tuesday’s opponents, with Lorenzo Insigne’s late winner the difference between the two sides.
In what is a slightly easier group this time around, a trip to Italy indicates an opportunity for Liverpool to make up for last season’s defeat.
Having started flawlessly in their Premier League campaign with five wins from five, the Reds will be looking to take that form into Europe.
Klopp’s side prevailed in the competition last season, but it is important not to forget the slow start they made.
Liverpool suffered three defeats in the group stage and they must avoid the same happening this year.
Tuesday’s opener against Napoli is, therefore, an important game for the Reds, hopefully getting their campaign off to a flier.
Ahead of the match, we outline five key battles that Liverpool must win on the pitch.
Virgil van Dijk v Dries Mertens
A key battle on Tuesday night will be between Liverpool’s big number four and Dries Mertens.
Virgil van Dijk has been in imperious form already this season, but he will be looking for a clean sheet in Italy. A battle with Mertens is likely to be pivotal to the overall outcome of the game and Van Dijk is sure to be relishing the test.
Andrew Robertson v Jose Callejon
Liverpool’s Scottish left-back had one of his best games of the season against Newcastle on Saturday, and he will want to continue that form in the Champions League.
A challenge against Spanish winger Jose Callejon awaits. Given that the Spaniard has already scored twice this season, this one could be a key battle to look out for.
Mo Salah v Mario Rui
The Egyptian King has already netted four times this season and he will be looking to add to his impressive tally in Europe.
His goal against Napoli last season at Anfield essentially saved Liverpool’s route to a sixth European title. Although this game has less importance on the game, Salah’s hunger for goals will remain high.
Fabinho v Fabian Ruiz
If Napoli deploy their favoured 4-2-2 formation, Fabinho will be crucial to Liverpool’s dominance in possession.
The Brazilian has performed superbly since the turn of the year, but a battle against Fabian Ruiz in the middle of the park will be an interesting one.
Roberto Firmino v Kalidou Koulibaly
Have you heard much about Roberto Firmino recently? Of course you have, and rightfully so.
The Brazilian has been at the centre of Liverpool’s attack so far this season with intricate passes and sublime assists. His assist for Salah’s goal against Newcastle showed that the number nine is brimming with confidence.
A battle against the highly-rated Kalidou Koulibaly will be crucial to Liverpool’s attacking output. If Firmino is to perform at his highest level, the Napoli defender will have a very busy night.