Liverpool’s Injury Woes: Key Players in Doubt for Pivotal Week | OneFootball

Liverpool Injury Update: Real Madrid Clash Looms

Liverpool enter a pivotal week with two colossal fixtures on the horizon. Arne Slot’s squad face Real Madrid at Anfield in the Champions League before hosting Manchester City in a vital Premier League showdown. Both games represent major hurdles in what has been an exceptional season so far.

Top of their Champions League group and boasting an impressive eight-point cushion over City domestically, Slot’s reign has begun in stellar fashion. Sunday’s dramatic 3-2 victory over Southampton not only demonstrated Liverpool’s quality but also highlighted their resilience—qualities they’ll need in abundance this week.

Here’s the latest on Liverpool’s injury situation as they prepare for this demanding double-header.

Trent Alexander-Arnold Edging Closer to Fitness

Trent Alexander-Arnold has been a notable absentee since suffering a hamstring injury in the win over Aston Villa prior to the international break. The right-back, who also withdrew from England duty, missed Sunday’s Southampton clash, though Slot expressed cautious optimism regarding his return.

Photo: IMAGO

“Trent isn’t training with us yet, but he is getting there, so we expect him to be back with us soon,” Slot said. Asked about his availability for this week’s games, Slot added: “With Trent, it’s going to be in between.”

Potential return date: November/December 2024

Kostas Tsimikas Nursing Knock from Training

Greek international Kostas Tsimikas was absent against Southampton due to an ankle knock sustained in training. While details remain sparse, the left-back’s absence could pose a challenge with key matches ahead.

Photo IMAGO

Potential return date: Unknown

Alisson Back in Training But Return Unclear

Liverpool’s first-choice goalkeeper, Alisson, is recovering from a hamstring issue but remains a doubt for the immediate term. Slot opted to rest the Brazilian on Sunday, with Caoimhin Kelleher stepping up impressively in his stead.

Photo: IMAGO

Although Alisson is back in training, rushing him for this intense week seems unlikely. The club will likely prioritise his long-term fitness.

Potential return date: December 2024

Further Concerns for Slot

Diogo Jota remains sidelined with a chest injury sustained during the Chelsea game last month. Initial hopes of a swift return post-international break have been dashed, with Slot confirming the forward still needs time.

Photo: IMAGO

Meanwhile, summer signing Federico Chiesa has yet to feature prominently for Liverpool. The Italian forward continues to train away from the main group as he builds fitness.

Potential return dates: Jota – December 2024; Chiesa – Unknown

Liverpool’s depth will be thoroughly tested this week as they chase success across multiple fronts. Real Madrid and Manchester City represent stern tests, and Slot will be counting on his available players to rise to the occasion.