Liverpool will face Manchester City this weekend in a massive Premier League battle, and while it is no longer one that involves the title race until the Reds can prove they are back in that mix, it is still a vital fixture for two clubs very much operating at a Champions League level.
The Reds are worried about injuries to their two most important attacking players, striker Alexander Isak and playmaking left winger Cody Gakpo. They have been the team’s best goal scorer and creator, respectively, with Isak finally showing the quality he displayed in 2024/25 with Newcastle United while Gakpo is bouncing back and looking like the stud that he is for the Dutch national team.
But both star man are currently injured. Isak left Sweden’s camp over the international break with a thigh injury, while Gakpo also sustained an ankle injury in late September during the international break.
Although there was some hope that Liverpool would have both stars available against Manchester City, Paul Gorst of the Liverpool Echo reports that both Gakpo and Isak are expected to be out against Manchester City.
That’s a huge blow, and it means Bradley Barcola is going to have to step up as a scorer, while youngsters like Victor Munoz and Rio Ngumoha are going to be entrusted as starters against an elite Man City back four.
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THE TRIVELA EFFECT
Purveyor of footy since the 90s. Favor the Premier League and old school Serie A with a touch of Bundesliga. More than a touch. Professional writer for 20 years, covering every sport but now focused on the Premier League and world football. You won’t be able to guess my favorite team.