Liverpool have suffered a setback ahead of their crucial Premier League showdown with Manchester City, with Cody Gakpo and Alexander Isak ruled out of Sunday’s clash at Anfield.
The two forwards picked up injuries during the international break, leaving head coach Andoni Iraola with important decisions to make as he prepares his side for one of the biggest fixtures of the season.
However, there is some encouraging news for the Reds, with defender Jeremy Jacquet expected to be available after missing France’s victory over Belgium earlier in the week.
Iraola Provides Gakpo and Isak Injury Update
Speaking ahead of the match, Iraola confirmed that Gakpo is struggling with an ankle injury, while Isak has sustained a thigh problem.
The Liverpool boss explained that Gakpo is working individually as he manages the pain from his injury but will not be ready in time to face City.
Isak’s injury is considered minor, although the club will continue to monitor his recovery closely.
Neither player is expected to be sidelined for an extended period, but both have been ruled out of Sunday’s encounter.
Their absence represents a significant challenge for Liverpool, particularly with the team preparing to face a Manchester City side capable of punishing defensive mistakes and missed opportunities in the final third.
Liverpool Facing Attacking Selection Dilemma
Liverpool’s problems up front extend beyond Gakpo and Isak. Hugo Ekitike is also unavailable, leaving Iraola with limited natural centre-forward options.
The manager admitted that Lewis Koumas is currently one of the few recognised No. 9 options available, although he remains confident that Liverpool have enough attacking quality to compete.
Federico Chiesa could potentially return to the squad after making progress in training during the international break. However, his lack of recent match action means his involvement remains uncertain.
Iraola also highlighted Bradley Barcola’s versatility, explaining that the winger can operate across all three positions in the forward line.
Barcola’s ability to play centrally could prove particularly important, giving Liverpool another option as they attempt to overcome the absence of several attacking players.
Despite the setbacks, Iraola insisted that he would field a team capable of challenging Manchester City.
Jeremy Jacquet Boost for the Reds
While Liverpool will be without several important players, Jacquet’s expected availability offers a welcome boost.
The defender missed France’s midweek victory over Belgium, raising concerns about his fitness ahead of Sunday’s contest. However, his anticipated return gives Liverpool another option at the back for a match in which defensive organisation could be decisive.
Conor Bradley and Giovanni Leoni remain long-term absentees, adding to the challenges facing Iraola as he finalises his selection.
Manchester City Receive Haaland Boost
Manchester City have received positive news of their own, with Erling Haaland declared fit for the trip to Anfield.
The Norwegian striker was substituted as a precaution during his country’s final international match, but City manager Enzo Maresca confirmed that the forward had recovered following a short break and a period of recovery in Marbella.
Maresca made his position clear, confirming that Haaland would be ready for the Liverpool encounter.
However, City will be without Phil Foden, who is suspended. Nico O’Reilly is also a fitness concern after withdrawing from the England squad during the international break.
Haaland’s availability will nevertheless be a major boost for City, especially against a Liverpool side dealing with several attacking absences.
A Huge Test Awaits Liverpool at Anfield
Liverpool enter Sunday’s showdown knowing that their attacking depth will be tested against one of their biggest rivals.
With Gakpo, Isak and Ekitike unavailable, Iraola must find the right balance between creativity, movement and finishing ability. Barcola’s versatility and the possibility of Chiesa returning could offer solutions, while Koumas may also have an important role to play.
Jacquet’s expected availability provides encouragement at the other end of the pitch, but Liverpool will need a disciplined defensive performance to contain Haaland and City’s attacking threats.
With both sides carrying injury and selection concerns into the contest, the tactical decisions made by Iraola and Maresca could have a significant influence on the outcome.
Liverpool will be hoping that home advantage and the atmosphere at Anfield can help them overcome their injury problems and deliver a strong performance against Manchester City.
