Arne Slot delivered a mixed injury update ahead of Sunday’s Premier League clash at the Etihad.
The Liverpool boss revealed that Alexander Isak will rejoin full training on Friday after three weeks out, but urged fans not to expect the striker to hit top form straight away.
Speaking in his pre-Manchester City press conference, the 47-year-old explained:
“Today will be his first full session back with the group after three weeks out. I know I previously said his ‘pre-season is over’, but I need to correct that — three weeks of rehab doesn’t restore a player to the level he was at before.
“Our rehab staff have been fantastic, but rehab cannot replicate the intensity of matches or full team training. We try to mirror it, but it’s not the same. So once again, I must say — he needs time.”
Isak, Liverpool’s record-breaking signing, has missed the last four matches since picking up a muscle injury in late October.
In his absence, Hugo Ekitike has led the attack superbly, thriving as the team’s main centre-forward. Slot hinted that Isak will need rhythm and patience before competing for that starting role again.
This aligns with the views of Roy Keane, Ian Wright and Gary Neville, who recently discussed Isak’s early struggles since joining Liverpool. Keane said: “I still think he’ll come good. I think he’ll come good for them.”
Slot also provided updates on Alisson Becker and Jeremie Frimpong, confirming both are expected to return after the international break.
“Alisson will definitely be back. I expect Jeremie to return after the break as well, given our busy schedule from November to March. But I don’t think he’ll be fully ready for the Forest game,” he said.
The news will reassure fans, especially after Paul Scholes stated Liverpool have badly missed Alisson, claiming that “every shot seems to be going in” without the Brazilian in goal.
Sunday’s showdown with City provides a massive chance for Liverpool to close the gap at the top of the table. Slot’s men currently sit third with 18 points — just one behind Pep Guardiola’s side.
The match follows a brilliant 1–0 Champions League win over Real Madrid, a performance that showcased Liverpool’s energy, control, and defensive solidity.
Replicating that display could see Liverpool enter the international break firmly in the title race — especially with key players nearing full fitness once again.
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