Granit Xhaka ready for Anfield as Bayer Leverkusen eye Liverpool upset

The former Arsenal midfielder, who had played at Anfield multiple times, shared his anticipation and determination ahead of the high-stakes match.

"Liverpool are a different calibre, especially at Anfield," Xhaka said to Kicker after Leverkusen's recent 0-0 draw against Stuttgart.

Reflecting on the challenges of playing in Liverpool's iconic stadium, he added, "It's the Champions League, under the lights at Liverpool. First of all, we have to enjoy the game."

Acknowledging Liverpool's quality, Xhaka remained optimistic. "Of course we know how much quality they have," he said. "But we don't have to hide.

"We'll go there and hopefully play with the same intensity as we did against Stuttgart. And then we have to reward ourselves."

For Xhaka, the plan was clear: exploit any weaknesses Liverpool might have. "We will analyse Liverpool... every team has some weaknesses, and you have to exploit them," he emphasised.

Leverkusen have received an additional boost with news of Martin Terrier's likely return.

Terrier, who had been sidelined due to a training knock, was expected to rejoin the squad for Tuesday's clash. "He trained with the team yesterday, so he should be fine," confirmed Simon Rolfes, Bayer Leverkusen's sporting director, to Bild.

Reflecting on the upcoming challenge, Rolfes added, "This is why we fought so hard last season, to be here in the Champions League, to experience nights like these. We're looking forward to flying to England."

With kick-off set for 21h00 CET on Tuesday, Leverkusen aim to make their mark in a tough away encounter, bringing Xhaka's experience and Terrier's return into a promising lineup for their showdown with Liverpool.

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