By The stakes are already high as Liverpool F.C. prepare to host Real Madrid in their upcoming UEFA Champions League fixture and the challenge suddenly just got more difficult. Manager Arne Slot confirmed that three key players Alexander Isak, Alisson Becker and Jeremie Frimpong will all miss the match.
Slot revealed in his Monday press conference that both Alisson and Frimpong are sidelined with hamstring injuries and will miss not only the clash with Real Madrid, but also the Premier League showdown against Manchester City F.C. this coming Sunday. “Jeremie and Alisson will both not be available,” Slot said.
Isak, the club’s high-profile striker, remains unavailable owing to a groin problem. Slot indicated that while the Swede might be considered for Sunday’s game, he will not feature against Real Madrid.
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With the absence of their first-choice goalkeeper, right-back and leading striker, Liverpool face significant adjustments. Alisson’s absence places young Georgian keeper Giorgi Mamardashvili under the spotlight. Meanwhile, Frimpong’s absence weakens Liverpool’s right flank defensively and offensively, and Isak’s absence disrupts their attacking cohort. The Netherlands manager admitted the situation is far from ideal:
“Frimpong and Alisson both be unavailable for Sunday, with Alex… we have to wait and see,” he said.
Real Madrid arrive relatively healthier and more composed. Slot acknowledged the challenge ahead:
“We are a different team… Real Madrid arrive without the injury list they had last season.”
Liverpool’s injury crisis comes at a critical moment with the Champions League group stage advancing and a demanding fixture list ahead.
Despite the injuries, Liverpool will still field a strong squad. Mid-week reinforcements such as Curtis Jones returned to training, which offers some hope. However, the coach’s selection will reflect the limitations: backups in goal and on the wing, and a less experienced right-back likely starting. Opposition stars like Vinícius Júnior of Real Madrid could exploit the weakened right flank.
These three absences pose a severe test of Liverpool’s depth and resilience. How Liverpool respond will be crucial both for their Champions League campaign and for their credibility as challengers. Meanwhile, Real Madrid will see this as a golden opportunity to assert their dominance at Anfield.
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