Liverpool manager Arne Slot has provided a worrying update on two of his players following the team’s emphatic 5–1 Champions League victory over Eintracht Frankfurt. Despite the impressive scoreline, the night ended on a sour note as both Alexander Isak and Jeremie Frimpong suffered injuries that could keep them out for several weeks.
Isak’s Groin Setback
The £125 million forward, who started alongside Hugo Ekitike for the first time, was forced off at halftime after feeling discomfort in his groin. Isak had looked lively in the first half, coming close to scoring on two occasions, but could not continue after the break.
Speaking after the game, Slot admitted that managing Isak’s fitness has been a delicate balance given his disrupted pre-season.
“Let’s hope it’s not too bad, but he had to go off because he felt his groin,” Slot said. “Many people wanted me to play him more, and we tried to find the balance. Unfortunately, today that balance didn’t work perfectly.”
The Liverpool boss explained that Isak’s limited training period prior to joining the club has made it difficult to prepare him for Liverpool’s intense schedule.
“When he came here, he had hardly trained. We’re bringing him forward step by step, but it’s tough when you don’t have a proper pre-season. I’m hoping it’s not serious, but if he’s out for a few weeks, it will set him back.”
Frimpong’s Recurring Hamstring Problem
There was more bad news for Liverpool when Jeremie Frimpong, who started at right-back, limped off in the 19th minute with another hamstring injury — the same issue that kept him out for a month earlier in the season.
Slot confirmed the Dutch defender will be sidelined again.
“It’s not helpful with Alisson and Giovanni Leoni already out, and now I expect Jeremie Frimpong to be out for a few weeks,” Slot revealed. “He came back from a hamstring injury recently, and now, unfortunately, it’s happened again.”
The manager also highlighted the growing strain on his squad depth.
“People like to think we have 25 to 30 first-team players, but when we play 11 vs 11 in training, we often need players from the under-21s.”
Gravenberch Also a Concern
Liverpool were also without Ryan Gravenberch for the trip to Germany due to a twisted ankle. However, Slot expressed optimism that the midfielder could return for the upcoming Premier League fixture against Brentford.
Tough Period Ahead
While the win over Frankfurt offered some relief after a difficult run of form, Slot now faces the challenge of managing a growing injury list. With key fixtures coming thick and fast, the Dutch coach will be hoping for positive news from the medical team — particularly concerning Isak, whose presence in attack has been crucial since his record-breaking move.
Liverpool’s depth will be tested in the coming weeks, and how Slot navigates this period could define their season.
