Liverpool Lose Isak and Gakpo for Anfield Showdown with Manchester City
Liverpool will be without Alexander Isak and Cody Gakpo when they welcome league leaders Manchester City to Anfield on Sunday, after both forwards returned from international duty with injuries.
Why the absences matter against the leaders
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Fixture | Liverpool v Manchester City, Sunday |
| Liverpool league record | Unbeaten after five matches, with three draws |
| Manchester City record | Five wins from five |
| Alexander Isak | Four league goals in five appearances |
| Cody Gakpo | Two goals and four assists in all competitions |
The absence of Isak and Gakpo removes two major attacking options for a match that offers Liverpool an early opportunity to measure themselves against Enzo Maresca’s side. City have made a perfect start, while Liverpool’s unbeaten run has been held back by three draws.
Gakpo left the Netherlands squad after a forceful challenge caused an ankle complaint. Isak, meanwhile, suffered a thigh problem during Sweden duty. Neither injury is currently viewed as a long-term concern, but neither player has recovered in time for the weekend.
Iraola said Liverpool had been unfortunate to receive injury news during the international window, confirming that both players would miss the City game. He explained that Gakpo is managing pain in his ankle after the tackle, while Isak will return once he feels fully ready.
The manager has backed Lewis Koumas, the 21-year-old Wales international, as one possible solution in the forward line. Koumas has already featured five times this season, and Iraola said the youngster has demonstrated that he can be trusted at this level. Liverpool also have other players capable of filling the affected attacking roles.
There is better news in defence, with Jeremy Jacquet available again. The defender had picked up a knock while making his senior international debut for France, but has recovered and is expected to train ahead of the match.
Iraola praised Jacquet’s start with France, describing him as a talented player whose qualities are especially clear to those who work with him every day. He said the defender handled a difficult debut well, while stressing that the young player still has considerable development ahead of him.
Liverpool’s manager expects an aggressive contest at Anfield, with both sides aiming to impose themselves. He described the occasion as significant for the club and supporters, though he also noted that the campaign remains at an early stage after only five league rounds.
What remains open
Liverpool have not set a return date for either Isak or Gakpo. Their availability beyond Sunday will depend on how quickly Gakpo’s ankle and Isak’s thigh respond to treatment and training.
