Liverpool have been dealt a worrying double injury setback ahead of their crucial Premier League showdown with Manchester City, with Alexander Isak and Cody Gakpo emerging as major doubts for Sunday’s encounter at Anfield.
Both forwards reportedly missed Thursday’s training session after returning early from international duty with injuries. Their potential absences would represent a significant blow for Liverpool as they prepare for one of their toughest tests of the season.
Isak and Gakpo Facing Uncertain Futures Ahead of Man City Test
According to Liverpool Echo chief correspondent Paul Gorst, Isak and Gakpo were both major doubts for the visit of Manchester City after appearing to miss the latest training session.
Isak picked up a thigh problem while representing Sweden during the international break, while Gakpo suffered an ankle injury during the Netherlands’ fixture against Serbia.
The situation surrounding Gakpo is particularly concerning, with initial reports suggesting that the Dutch international could face a spell on the sidelines following a heavy challenge that raised fears of possible ligament damage.
Although Liverpool will be hoping both players can recover in time, their absence from training has increased uncertainty over their availability for Sunday’s showdown.
Manager Andoni Iraola had previously declined to rule either forward out of the contest, but the latest developments suggest Liverpool could be forced to make important adjustments to their attacking plans.
With Hugo Ekitike already sidelined by an Achilles injury, Liverpool have little room for further setbacks in their forward line. Losing both Isak and Gakpo would leave the club without several important attacking options for a fixture that could have significant implications for their Premier League campaign.
Lewis Koumas Could Be Handed a Golden Opportunity
Should Isak and Gakpo fail to recover in time, young forward Lewis Koumas could emerge as a leading candidate to step into the starting line-up.
The 20-year-old has attracted attention with his recent performances and impressive displays for Wales during the international break. His energy, movement and attacking potential could offer Liverpool a different option against Pep Guardiola’s side.
However, stepping up against Manchester City would represent a major challenge for the young forward, particularly given the intensity and quality associated with such a high-profile Premier League fixture.
Summer signing Bradley Barcola and young winger Víctor Muñoz could also come into consideration as Liverpool assess their available attacking options.
The final decision will depend on the fitness of the injured players and the manager’s assessment of which combination offers the best chance of troubling City’s defence.
Liverpool Cannot Afford More Attacking Setbacks
Liverpool will be desperate to have their key forwards available for Sunday’s encounter, especially with Manchester City arriving at Anfield for a match that demands quality, depth and clinical finishing.
Isak’s presence would provide an important central attacking option, while Gakpo’s versatility and ability to operate across the forward line would give Liverpool additional tactical flexibility.
Without them, Liverpool could be forced to rely on younger players and alternative combinations at a critical moment in their campaign.
For now, their participation remains uncertain, and further assessments will be needed before a definitive decision can be made.
Liverpool supporters will be hoping the pair can make timely recoveries, but if both are ruled out, the responsibility could fall on Koumas and the club’s other available forwards to deliver when it matters most.
