The 2026/27 Premier League season opens with Liverpool traveling to St. James’ Park to face Newcastle United on August 23, and new head coach Andoni Iraola has revealed a starting XI that signals change is very much underway at Anfield.
A 4-2-3-1 formation features the competitive debut of defender Jérémy Jacquet and a starting berth for young winger Rio Ngumoha, chosen ahead of Victor Munoz.
The lineup and what stands out
Jacquet, making his first Premier League appearance, slots into a defense already dealing with the absence of Conor Bradley and Joe Gomez, both sidelined through injury. Jacquet takes his place alongside veteran Virgil van Dijk.
Alexander Isak leads the line, facing his former club for the first time since his move to Liverpool. Isak’s return to St. James’ Park will be one of the more closely watched individual storylines of opening weekend.
