Liverpool Host Como & Monaco in Anfield Pre-Season Finale

It’s going to be a busy summer for Liverpool FC. The Reds have confirmed two major pre-season home fixtures at their iconic home ground, setting the stage for the 2026–27 campaign. First up is a clash with French giants AS Monaco on August 9, followed by a historic first-ever meeting with Italian Serie A side Como 1907 on August 16.

These aren't just casual kickabouts. They’re the final curtain calls before the real season begins, designed to test new tactics and build team chemistry in front of the Kop. For fans, it’s a chance to see the squad in action early; for the players, it’s a high-pressure environment to prove they belong in the starting XI.

A Historic First Meeting at Anfield

Here’s the thing that makes the second fixture particularly interesting: Liverpool and Como have never played each other before. This Sunday evening match on August 16 will mark the inaugural encounter between the English powerhouse and the Lariani (as Como fans affectionately call their club).

For Anfield Stadium, hosting a first-time opponent adds a layer of novelty. But let’s not kid ourselves—playing at Anfield is always tough. The atmosphere there is legendary for a reason. Como 1907’s official statement highlighted this, noting the opportunity to "test itself against one of Europe’s most storied clubs" in a venue known globally for its "atmosphere, history and sense of occasion."

The game kicks off at 6:00 PM BST. It’s positioned as the absolute final warm-up for Liverpool before competitive league play resumes. That means managers might rotate the squad heavily, giving fringe players a shot at glory while resting key stars like Mohamed Salah or Virgil van Dijk for the season opener.

Ticket Prices and Fan Access

If you’re planning to attend, the pricing structure is already taking shape. Como has released specific tiers for general admission tickets, which are surprisingly affordable compared to some Champions League nights.

• Over 65s: £26.25
• Young Adults (17–24): £17.50
• Juniors (16 and under): £10.00

Standard adult prices haven’t been fully detailed yet, but expect them to follow a similar tiered logic. For the earlier Monaco fixture, secondary ticketing platform SeatPick lists starting prices around $44 USD, though those rates fluctuate wildly based on demand. Liverpool FC’s official Facebook page confirms that tickets for both games are available, urging supporters to act quickly through official channels to avoid scalpers.

There’s also a hospitality angle to watch. Event listings mention access to the "Carlsberg Dugout (Kop end)," suggesting premium seating options for corporate guests or dedicated fans willing to pay extra for a closer view of the tactical battle unfolding on the pitch.

Why These Fixtures Matter

Pre-season friendlies often get dismissed as meaningless. But wait—they’re crucial for building momentum. After months of intense training camps in the heat, these matches provide the first real feedback loop for the coaching staff.

Playing AS Monaco offers a different challenge than facing Como. Monaco brings Ligue 1 pace and technical flair, while Como represents the physicality and tactical discipline of Serie A. By facing two distinct European styles back-to-back, Liverpool can assess how their system adapts to varying pressures.

The timing is strategic too. With the 2026–27 season looming, every minute counts. Injuries sustained now are manageable; injuries in September are catastrophic. Coaches use these games to monitor fitness levels closely, ensuring no one pushes too hard too soon.

What to Expect from the Squad

Don’t expect the full starting eleven for both games. Rotation is key. We’ll likely see new signings given extended minutes to showcase their abilities. If Liverpool made any summer transfers, this is their audition tape.

Youngsters from the academy might also get a run-out, especially if the senior squad is nearing peak fitness. The goal isn’t necessarily to win convincingly—it’s to look sharp, cohesive, and ready for the grind of the Premier League schedule.

Fans should brace for a lively, experimental display. Tactics may shift mid-game as coaches test different formations. It’s chaotic, yes, but that’s the beauty of pre-season football. You never know who might emerge as a surprise starter.

Background: The Road to August

Liverpool’s pre-season preparation typically involves extensive travel and multiple friendlies across continents. However, ending the tour at home provides a psychological boost. Playing in front of your own supporters creates a familiar environment before the unfamiliar challenges of away days begin.

Como 1907’s rise in Serie A has been notable recently. Their inclusion in Liverpool’s schedule signals respect for the Italian club’s growing stature. Meanwhile, AS Monaco remains a consistent threat in France, making them a worthy sparring partner.

The connection between these entities is clear: Liverpool seeks validation of their squad depth; Monaco and Como seek prestige and performance data against top-tier opposition. It’s a mutually beneficial arrangement that highlights the global nature of modern football.