Liverpool face defensive headache ahead of Qarabag

Liverpool head into their final Champions League league phase fixture against Qarabag with a growing sense of concern at the back. Arne Slot confirmed in his pre match press conference that both Joe Gomez and Ibrahima Konate will miss the clash, leaving the Premier League champions stretched thin in central defence.

Neither defender took part in training at the AXA Training Centre on Tuesday, and their absence was quickly explained. Gomez suffered a hip problem during Saturday’s 3-2 defeat at Bournemouth, while Konate returned to France following the death of his father.

Slot was asked directly about Gomez’s condition and offered little encouragement in the short term.

“Not really,” he replied, “but I can confirm he is not available for tomorrow evening.”

It leaves Liverpool facing Qarabag with only one recognised senior centre back available, and that puts the spotlight firmly on Virgil van Dijk.

Arne Slot rules out January panic

The situation has inevitably raised questions about whether Liverpool might act in the transfer market before the February 2 deadline. However, Slot played down any suggestion of an emergency signing.

“I expect him back in a relatively short time,” he said when asked if Gomez’s injury could force the club’s hand.

The Liverpool manager’s stance reflects a wider approach since his arrival, prioritising stability over short term fixes. Having already delivered the Premier League title in his first season, Slot appears reluctant to compromise long term planning for a brief injury crisis.

Konate’s situation remains more sensitive. The French defender’s return depends not only on fitness but also on personal circumstances.

“Of course I spoke to him. And if you know why he’s not here, of course we both know he’s having a hard time,” Slot said.

“I’m hoping and expecting him back soon, but also not for tomorrow evening’s game.”

Makeshift solutions at centre back

With Gomez, Konate and long term absentee Giovanni Leoni unavailable, Liverpool are set to field a patched together partnership. Wataru Endo stepped in alongside Van Dijk at the weekend, but Andy Robertson and Ryan Gravenberch are also being considered.

Slot was typically candid about the situation.

“It’s for sure that at centre-back tomorrow there will not be a centre-back,” the head coach said.

“I can only play a midfielder over there because there are no centre-backs available – apart from Virgil, who is one of the players I credit a lot for being fit all the time.

“At his age, constantly being ready to play another 90 is something we should not take for granted.”

For a side built around control and structure, relying on improvised roles carries obvious risk. Qarabag may not boast the firepower of Europe’s elite, but any Champions League fixture punishes complacency.