Liverpool have been dealt a significant injury setback ahead of their crucial Premier League showdown against Manchester City, with head coach Andoni Iraola confirming that Alexander Isak and Cody Gakpo will both miss Sunday’s encounter at Anfield.
The two forwards have been important players for Liverpool during the opening weeks of Iraola’s tenure, making their absence a major concern as the Reds prepare to face one of their toughest opponents of the season.
Isak has been struggling with a thigh injury sustained while representing Sweden against Romania during the international break. Meanwhile, Gakpo picked up an ankle injury during the Netherlands’ 2-1 UEFA Nations League victory over Serbia and was forced off in the first half.
Speaking ahead of the match on Friday, Iraola confirmed that neither player would be available for the weekend fixture.
“Alex Isak and Cody Gakpo will not play the game against City. They are not ready,” the Liverpool boss explained.
Despite the disappointment, Iraola offered some encouragement regarding the severity of the injuries, suggesting that both players could return without facing lengthy spells on the sidelines.
He explained that Gakpo was dealing with an ankle problem that required careful management, while Isak’s thigh injury was relatively minor. Liverpool will continue to assess both players’ progress on a day-to-day basis.
The double absence nevertheless presents Iraola with a difficult selection decision, particularly with Hugo Ekitike also sidelined by a long-term injury.
Lewis Koumas Could Get a Major Opportunity
With Liverpool short of recognised centre-forwards, Lewis Koumas could be handed a rare opportunity to lead the attack against Manchester City.
Iraola expressed confidence in the young forward, insisting that he has already demonstrated his ability to contribute when given important minutes.
The Liverpool manager also acknowledged that the club has other attacking options available, meaning he will not necessarily rely on a conventional striker to fill the position.
Federico Chiesa could potentially return to contention after making progress in his recovery. However, the Italian has yet to feature this season, leaving questions over whether he would be ready for such a demanding fixture.
Iraola could instead move one of his wide attackers into a central role, with Bradley Barcola and Victor Munoz among the possible alternatives. Florian Wirtz could also operate as a false nine if the manager decides to adopt a more flexible attacking approach.
Iraola Backs Barcola Despite Goal Drought
Barcola has come under scrutiny after failing to register a goal or assist since arriving from Paris Saint-Germain for £123 million six weeks ago.
The forward also attracted criticism in France following his performance in the national team’s 4-1 Nations League victory over Belgium.
However, Iraola has defended the attacker, arguing that a lack of goals does not necessarily mean a forward has performed poorly.
The Liverpool boss pointed to Barcola’s ability to get into promising positions and create scoring opportunities, explaining that he would rather see the forward continue making those runs than become reluctant to take risks.
Iraola also highlighted Barcola’s versatility, noting that he can operate across the frontline and could prove valuable in several attacking positions against City.
Liverpool Face a Tough Test Against Manchester City
The injury problems come at a particularly difficult time for Liverpool, who will need to find alternative solutions against a Manchester City side capable of punishing defensive and attacking weaknesses.
Without Isak and Gakpo, the Reds will lose two players who have contributed significantly to their early-season performances. Isak has scored four goals, while Gakpo has recorded two goals and four assists.
Their absence places greater responsibility on the remaining attackers to deliver in a fixture that could have important implications for Liverpool’s Premier League campaign.
Iraola remains confident that he can assemble a competitive starting eleven despite the setbacks. His immediate challenge will be deciding whether to trust Koumas as the central striker or use a more unconventional attacking combination.
Liverpool supporters will now hope that Isak and Gakpo recover quickly, while attention turns to which players can step up and make the difference against Manchester City at Anfield.
