Record Signing’s Injury Crisis Deepens as Slot Faces Striker Shortage, January Moves Likely
Liverpool’s £125 million striker Alexander Isak is facing a prolonged period out after undergoing surgery on Monday for a fractured fibula in his ankle, dealing a major blow to manager Arne Slot’s attacking options.
The club confirmed the successful operation in a statement, revealing that Isak sustained the significant injury while scoring in Saturday’s 2-1 win at Tottenham. He was caught in a heavy challenge by defender Micky van de Ven and limped off immediately after his goal. The club stated his rehabilitation will begin at their training base but placed “no timeframe yet on his return.”
The injury caps a deeply frustrating start to life at Anfield for the Swedish international, who has managed only three goals in 16 appearances. His integration was hampered by a delayed pre-season and a previous groin problem.
“It’s a huge blow because I think Liverpool were actually one attacker short anyway,” lamented former Reds defender Jamie Carragher on Sky Sports. “It’s just really bad luck for Isak. It’s probably one of the first glimpses we’ve seen of his real quality.”
The timing is severe for Slot, who is already without Mohamed Salah (Africa Cup of Nations) and the injured Cody Gakpo. This leaves Hugo Ekitike and Federico Chiesa as the only senior forwards available, intensifying pressure for January reinforcements.
The crisis may now force a shift in the club’s transfer strategy. Bournemouth winger Antoine Semenyo, who has a reported release clause, has been strongly linked. Carragher also suggested the injury could directly impact Mo Salah’s future, stating, “I think for certain now Mo Salah will be staying at the club.”
Slot, who admitted post-match that the injury was “not a good thing,” must now navigate a critical part of the season without his record signing, with the January window looming as a crucial opportunity to address a suddenly threadbare attack.
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- Liverpool’s Record Signing Isak to Ease Into Action, Says Slot
- Sweden Boss Potter Expects Isak to Feature in Liverpool’s Clash with Man City
