Isak Back in Training After Groin Setback
Isak, who has been sidelined for the past four games due to a groin injury sustained against Eintracht Frankfurt, resumed full training with the first team on Friday. The 26-year-old is expected to be among the substitutes for Sunday’s high-profile Premier League encounter at the Etihad Stadium.
Slot, speaking in his pre-match press conference, confirmed Isak’s progress but stressed the importance of a measured return. “He’s back with the group today, which is great news after three weeks out,” Slot explained. “But spending that time with the rehab team isn’t the same as being on the pitch in competitive matches. No matter how hard we try to simulate those conditions, it’s simply not possible. He’ll need time to rediscover his rhythm.”
The Dutchman had previously remarked that Isak’s pre-season was complete and that the forward was ready to reach top condition, but he has since tempered those expectations following this latest setback.
Slot Prioritises Long-Term Fitness
Liverpool’s medical and performance staff have managed Isak’s recovery carefully to avoid aggravating the issue that forced him off at half-time during the 5–1 win over Frankfurt. Slot’s comments underline the club’s desire to ensure their record signing returns fully fit, rather than risking a premature comeback.
“Although our rehab team have done an outstanding job, you can’t compare that to the intensity of Premier League football,” Slot continued. “We’ll build him up gradually.”
That approach means Isak is likely to feature from the bench against Man City, with Hugo Ekitike expected to start up front. Federico Chiesa remains another attacking option, while Cody Gakpo’s recent cameo as a striker in the 1–0 Champions League victory over Real Madrid gives Slot additional flexibility.
Depth in Attack Eases the Pressure
Liverpool’s squad depth has eased the urgency to bring Isak straight back into the starting eleven. Ekitike’s energy and Gakpo’s versatility have provided valuable solutions during the Swede’s absence, while Chiesa’s adaptability has offered Slot tactical variety.
That competition allows Liverpool to manage Isak’s minutes carefully, particularly with a busy fixture list and international commitments on the horizon. The forward has been included in Sweden’s squad for their upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Switzerland and Slovenia, but national coach Graham Potter has already stated that his involvement will be monitored closely.
Eyes on Etihad but Focus on the Bigger Picture
Liverpool’s visit to the Etihad promises to be one of the defining fixtures of the early season. Yet for Slot, the bigger picture remains ensuring Isak returns at his peak rather than pushing too soon.
With a demanding winter schedule approaching and Liverpool competing on multiple fronts, preserving the striker’s long-term fitness could prove decisive. Isak’s presence on the bench will be a welcome sight for supporters, but his gradual reintegration reflects a manager keen to protect both player and team performance.
