Injury update shapes critical period for Liverpool
Liverpool’s preparations for a decisive stretch of the season have been disrupted by a series of fresh concerns, with Arne Slot forced to reassess his attacking plans once again. A demanding winter schedule coupled with a Champions League trip to Italy has intensified the focus on player availability, and the club’s latest injury update highlights both immediate challenges and potential relief on the horizon.
While recent league form has left Liverpool searching for consistency, the focus now shifts to how Slot can navigate short-term absences while maintaining momentum across multiple competitions.
Gakpo setback adds to attacking concerns
Liverpool were hit with an unexpected blow when Cody Gakpo was ruled out shortly before the squad travelled to Milan. The forward missed Monday’s training session, and Slot later confirmed that he will spend several weeks on the sidelines after sustaining an injury during the win over Leeds.
Slot explained that Gakpo’s setback occurred late in the match and the medical assessment made clear he would not be able to feature in the near future. His absence forces Liverpool to rethink their forward options, with Hugo Ekitike and Alexander Isak potential partners if a dual-strike system is used once more.
For a side already searching for fluency in the final third, losing Gakpo—one of their most versatile attacking outlets—is a significant disruption. At this stage, Liverpool have not provided a formal return date.
Potential return date: Unknown
Chiesa illness disrupts travel plans
Federico Chiesa’s absence was initially met with confusion, but Slot clarified that illness prevented the Italian from travelling with the squad to Italy. Although there is a slim chance he could make a late journey, the Liverpool manager made clear that such an outcome is unlikely.
Slot noted that Chiesa’s condition was being monitored closely, but expectations for a rapid recovery remain low. Should he miss the Champions League fixture, he is expected to be available for the upcoming meeting with Brighton at Anfield.
Potential return date: Saturday 13 December, vs Brighton (H)
Frimpong recovery provides optimism
Jeremie Frimpong’s spell on the sidelines has been felt acutely, especially during the period when Conor Bradley was unavailable. The summer signing has been recovering from a hamstring injury sustained in October’s convincing win over Eintracht Frankfurt.
Slot suggested last month that Frimpong’s timeline was similar to Bradley’s and hinted more recently that the Dutch full-back may return to team training imminently. Should his progress continue as hoped, Frimpong could be considered for selection against Brighton, providing Liverpool with much-needed depth on the right flank.
Potential return date: Saturday 13 December, vs Brighton (H)
Leoni ruled out for long term
Giovanni Leoni’s first months at Liverpool have been overshadowed by a serious knee injury suffered during his debut in the Carabao Cup. The ACL tear requires a long recovery, and Slot has already confirmed that the young defender will miss the remainder of the campaign.
Slot spoke with empathy about the challenge facing the Italian, noting the difficulty of adapting to a new country while dealing with a season-ending setback. Despite the severity of the injury, the club remain confident in his long-term potential.
Potential return date: Late 2026
