Liverpool are heading into one of their biggest games of the season with Manchester City visiting Anfield on Sunday — but the biggest concern right now may be the growing injury list.
With the international break producing fresh fitness worries, Andoni Iraola has several important decisions to make before Liverpool face City.
Alexander Isak and Cody Gakpo have both returned early from international duty after picking up injuries, while Liverpool are also monitoring the progress of several other players.
🚨 Alexander Isak: Man City Return Still Uncertain
Alexander Isak withdrew from the Sweden squad after suffering a thigh problem during the victory over Romania on September 25.
The initial assessment suggested the injury was relatively minor, but the striker was unable to continue with the national team and returned to Liverpool for further assessment.
Liverpool have yet to provide a definitive update on his condition.
Isak’s availability for Sunday’s clash with Manchester City therefore remains uncertain. The game is currently viewed as a possible return date, but there is no guarantee that the Swedish striker will be ready.
His presence would be a huge boost for Liverpool, especially with City coming to Anfield.
⚠️ Cody Gakpo Suffers Fresh Injury Concern
Cody Gakpo also returned from international duty early after suffering an ankle injury.
The Liverpool forward scored a late equaliser against Germany before starting against Serbia, but he was forced off after taking a heavy challenge from Sasa Lukic.
Gakpo reportedly tried to continue before eventually asking to be substituted.
The Dutchman has been one of Liverpool’s most dangerous attacking players this season, making his fitness another major concern for Iraola ahead of Sunday’s blockbuster.
His return date remains unclear.
🔴 Giovanni Leoni Could Finally Be Close
There is better news surrounding Giovanni Leoni.
The young centre-back has been out since suffering a serious ACL injury during his Liverpool debut against Southampton in September 2025.
After almost a year on the sidelines, Leoni is reportedly expected to return to full training around October 12.
That means he is unlikely to feature against Manchester City, but a return to Under-21 action could follow shortly afterwards.
The Carabao Cup clash against Chelsea on October 27 could become a realistic target for his competitive comeback.
💪 Federico Chiesa Still Waiting for His Opportunity
Federico Chiesa has also been unavailable after suffering a small muscle problem in his back during Liverpool’s friendly against Como in August.
The Italian has yet to make a competitive appearance under Iraola this season and was also ruled out of the recent Bournemouth fixture.
Liverpool will be hoping his recovery progresses quickly, particularly with a demanding run of fixtures ahead.
🔴 Hugo Ekitike’s Comeback Could Come Earlier Than Expected
Hugo Ekitike remains on the long-term injury list after rupturing his right Achilles against Paris Saint-Germain in April.
The injury was initially expected to keep him out for between nine and 12 months, putting his return somewhere between January and April.
However, reports from France suggest Ekitike is now targeting a return before the end of the year after consulting a specialist in the United States.
That would represent a major boost for Liverpool.
Iraola has already included the forward in the Champions League squad, leaving the door open for a possible return during the January fixtures against Inter and Lens.
⚠️ Conor Bradley Also Making Progress
Conor Bradley remains further behind in his recovery after undergoing surgery for bone and ligament damage to his left knee.
The injury occurred following Liverpool’s goalless draw with Arsenal in January, and the defender continues to work his way back towards full fitness.
🔥 Liverpool Need Their Best Players Fit
With Manchester City arriving at Anfield on Sunday, Liverpool cannot afford to lose more key players.
Isak and Gakpo are the immediate concerns, while the potential return of Leoni, Ekitike, Chiesa and Bradley offers hope for the weeks ahead.
For now, Liverpool supporters will be watching closely for the next official injury updates — particularly regarding Isak and Gakpo.
Sunday’s showdown with Manchester City could depend heavily on who is fit enough to take part.
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