Liverpool Face Massive Injury Anxiety Over Star Forwards Ahead Of Man City Clash

Double Blow For Liverpool Forwards

Liverpool are facing a major fitness worry as both Alexander Isak and Cody Gakpo returned from international duty with injuries. The news comes at a difficult time for the Reds, who are preparing for a demanding run of nine games in 29 days.

Isak was forced to withdraw from the Sweden squad with a minor thigh injury. Sweden boss Graham Potter admitted his side will miss the striker, saying, "Clearly there's not another Alexander Isak, that's obvious."

Shortly after, Gakpo suffered an ankle injury while playing for the Netherlands against Serbia. Netherlands boss Xavi confirmed the issue, stating, "It's his ankle, that's all I know." The forward had recently scored a late equalizer against Jürgen Klopp's Germany before his injury setback.

Isak Finding His Form

Losing Isak is a massive blow for manager Andoni Iraola, who took over from Arne Slot this summer. The striker, who is 27 years old, has been in stellar form, scoring five goals in eight matches for club and country this season. This includes four Premier League goals, which already surpasses his total of three from the entirety of last season.

Isak joined Liverpool from Newcastle in summer 2025 for a British record fee of £125 million. After a difficult first year plagued by a leg fracture, he has looked like a completely different player this term. He has started all five of Liverpool's league matches, including scoring the winner in a 1-0 victory against Bournemouth on Sept. 20.

Iraola has been pleased with his striker's progress. "With Alex, if he's fit, if he's available, if he's in good shape, I think he will produce the numbers," Iraola said recently.

Gakpo Resurgence At Risk

Gakpo's potential absence is equally damaging for the team. The forward, who is also 27 years old, has enjoyed a superb start to the season, recording two goals and four assists in six games. He has formed a dangerous partnership with Isak, setting up three of the Sweden international's goals in the Premier League.

Liverpool host Manchester City on Oct. 11. Iraola will need his medical staff to work quickly to get his key attackers back on the pitch. If they cannot play, Liverpool's tough October schedule will become much harder to handle.