“Isak’s Injury Could Secretly Create a Major Chance for Liverpool”

 

North London this weekend, but the triumph was marred by a serious injury to record-signing Alexander Isak. The Swedish striker, who joined Anfield for a staggering £125 million over the summer, opened the scoring for Liverpool in the 56th minute.

Tragically, the goal came at a heavy price. After a robust challenge from Micky van de Ven, Isak was seen writhing in pain, clutching his lower leg, and required assistance from medical staff to leave the pitch.

With Liverpool’s attacking options already stretched thin under Arne Slot, this injury could dramatically alter the course of the season, potentially opening the door for a previously sidelined star to step back into the spotlight. The seriousness of the situation was confirmed by David Ornstein of The Athletic, who posted on X:

“Alexander Isak set for period on sidelines with suspected leg break from challenge in Liverpool win at Spurs. #LFC yet to comment on severity but scans poised to confirm fears of fracture to left side; recovery time typically a few months.”

While the club awaits final scan results, the reference to a “suspected leg break” suggests Isak may not return until well into spring 2026. For a player just starting to find his rhythm at Anfield, the timing—right after scoring his second Premier League goal—is especially cruel.

Liverpool’s attacking crisis has deepened:

Mohamed Salah: On international duty with Egypt for AFCON.

Cody Gakpo: Out with a muscular injury until at least early January.

Alexander Isak: Facing a multi-month layoff with a fractured leg.

With Hugo Ekitike as the only other recognised senior striker, Slot may now have no choice but to turn to Federico Chiesa, who has largely been deployed as an impact substitute despite being voted September Player of the Month by fans.

Chiesa has delivered whenever called upon, providing two assists in the Carabao Cup win over Southampton and scoring a key goal against Crystal Palace, yet a regular starting spot has eluded him. Now, with attacking options so limited, Slot could finally rely on Chiesa to fill the gap on the flanks.

The Italian winger’s 2025/26 season has been a lesson in patience and professionalism. Despite limited minutes, he has consistently made an impact, with fans often questioning why he hasn’t been given more starts given his energy and effectiveness.

While Isak’s injury is a severe blow, it may offer Chiesa the opportunity to translate his substitute performances into a consistent starting role, giving Slot something significant to think about as the season progresses.