Liverpool vs AC Milan – Pre-Season Clash in Hong Kong: Preview, Team News & What to Expect
Football fans are in for a nostalgic treat this Saturday as Liverpool take on AC Milan in a high-profile pre-season friendly in Hong Kong. The fixture rekindles memories of their unforgettable UEFA Champions League finals in 2005 and 2007, and while the stakes are lower this time around, there’s plenty to keep eyes glued to the pitch.
Liverpool: A New Era Under Slot Begins to Take Shape
After lifting the Premier League title last season under Arne Slot, who built upon the foundation laid by Jürgen Klopp, Liverpool now look to assert themselves even more in the 2025–26 campaign. The Reds began their summer with a 3-1 win over Preston North End, marking a return to the pitch under somber circumstances following the tragic passing of Diogo Jota.
Slot wasted no time showcasing his vision, handing debuts to new signings Jeremie Frimpong, Milos Kerkez, and goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili, with all three impressing. The Hong Kong clash could also mark the first sighting of Florian Wirtz, Liverpool’s blockbuster signing from Bayer Leverkusen, as fans eagerly await his debut in red.
Despite several key absentees against Preston, big names like Virgil van Dijk, Alexis Mac Allister, Luis Díaz, Alisson, and Ibrahima Konaté have travelled to Asia and are expected to feature. Another high-profile addition, Hugo Ekitike, is also in line to play, adding further intrigue to Liverpool’s attacking lineup.
AC Milan: Allegri’s Second Coming & The Long Road Back
It’s a summer of transition for AC Milan, who finished a disappointing eighth in Serie A last season and now find themselves without European football for the upcoming campaign. Massimiliano Allegri is back at the helm after more than a decade, and the rebuilding process is underway.
Milan have already played two pre-season fixtures this week, falling 1-0 to Arsenal before winning the post-match penalty shootout. Rafael Leão continues to lead the line despite ongoing transfer speculation, while Tijjani Reijnders and Theo Hernandez have departed. The addition of Samuele Ricci and seasoned veteran Luka Modric brings much-needed depth to their midfield.
However, the lack of a recognised striker was evident against Arsenal, following the exits of Luka Jović, Tammy Abraham, and Francesco Camarda. Santiago Giménez could be involved soon, though he remains a doubt due to his Gold Cup duties.
A Look at Recent Encounters
Liverpool have had the upper hand in recent meetings between these two European giants. They’ve won all six clashes since the two Champions League finals, including a 3-1 victory in the Champions League league phase last season at the San Siro, where Christian Pulisic initially put Milan ahead before Liverpool roared back.
What to Expect
This match may be a friendly on paper, but both teams have strong reasons to impress. For Liverpool, it’s about continuing momentum and integrating their big-name signings ahead of the Community Shield against Crystal Palace. For Milan, it’s a chance for Allegri to test his reshaped squad and give fans a reason to believe in a turnaround.
Expect fireworks from both sides, moments of flair from new signings, and a passionate crowd in Hong Kong ready to witness two footballing giants battle it out once more.
