Liverpool have been handed a worrying injury update ahead of their crucial Premier League showdown with Manchester City, with Alexander Isak and Cody Gakpo both facing a race against time to be fit for Sunday’s encounter at Anfield.

The two attackers reportedly picked up injuries while representing their respective countries during the international break. Their potential absence would be a significant setback for Liverpool, who are preparing for one of their toughest tests of the season.

Manchester City arrive at Anfield in formidable form after winning their opening five league matches. Liverpool, meanwhile, will be desperate to end that perfect run and secure a crucial result in front of their home supporters.

However, with Hugo Ekitike already sidelined for an extended period, the possible loss of Isak and Gakpo could leave Liverpool short of attacking options at a critical moment.

Iraola Provides Injury Update on Isak and Gakpo

Speaking ahead of the highly anticipated meeting with Manchester City, Andoni Iraola confirmed that both players were still dealing with injuries after withdrawing from international duty.

“I think Alex Isak and Cody Gakpo both have had to leave the national teams with injuries,” Iraola explained.

“Now it’s a matter of if they are going to recover in time to help us in the next game or not. But right now they are both injured.”

Isak reportedly sustained a thigh injury after scoring for Sweden in their 2-1 Nations League victory over Romania on September 25. Gakpo, meanwhile, suffered an ankle problem during the Netherlands’ win over Serbia two days later.

Both players have returned to Liverpool for further medical assessments, with the club monitoring their recovery ahead of Sunday’s fixture.

Although neither injury has yet been confirmed as a definitive reason for missing the match, their availability remains uncertain. Liverpool will be hoping both forwards make sufficient progress to give the manager more options in attack.

Liverpool Face Attacking Dilemma Against Manchester City

The potential absence of Isak and Gakpo presents Liverpool with a difficult tactical challenge.

Isak offers pace, movement and a natural presence through the centre of the attack, while Gakpo provides versatility, creativity and a goal threat from the left flank or central areas.

Losing both players would deprive Liverpool of two important attacking weapons against a Manchester City side that has started the campaign strongly.

With Ekitike also unavailable, Liverpool could be forced to reconsider their attacking setup and place greater responsibility on the forwards who remain fit.

The situation is particularly concerning given the quality of City’s defence and their ability to punish opponents who struggle to maintain possession or create clear-cut chances.

Liverpool will need their available attackers to deliver an effective performance, while the midfield must provide sufficient support to prevent the team from becoming isolated in the final third.

Is There Still Hope for Liverpool?

There is still some hope that Liverpool could have one or both players available, depending on how they respond to treatment and rehabilitation in the coming days.

Isak’s thigh problem has reportedly been described as relatively minor, although that does not guarantee he will recover in time. The full extent of Gakpo’s ankle injury also remains unclear.

Liverpool will therefore need to assess both players carefully before making a final decision on their involvement.

Rushing either forward back too soon could risk aggravating the injury, making the club’s medical assessment particularly important ahead of such a demanding fixture.

Liverpool Cannot Afford Another Setback

Sunday’s clash represents a major opportunity for Liverpool to make a statement against one of their biggest rivals. However, the possible absence of two key attackers has made the challenge considerably more complicated.

Manchester City will arrive with confidence after their impressive start to the campaign, and Liverpool must find a way to match their opponents’ intensity while making the most of their attacking opportunities.

If Isak and Gakpo are ruled out, Liverpool will need a strong collective performance, disciplined defending and greater efficiency in front of goal to stand a realistic chance of securing a positive result.

For now, the focus remains on their recovery, with Liverpool supporters anxiously awaiting further updates before Sunday’s showdown at Anfield.