Liverpool striker Alexander Isak is a major doubt for Sunday's Premier League showdown against Manchester United at Old Trafford. The £130m forward is not expected to play after suffering a groin injury in training this week, dealing a significant blow to manager Arne Slot and the Reds.
Injury Woes Continue
Isak is set to undergo a scan to assess the extent of the problem. This latest setback adds to a nightmare first campaign with the Premier League champions, as he only returned to action last month after breaking his leg in December. He also faced fitness issues earlier in the season due to a lack of pre-season training following his British-record transfer from Newcastle United.
The 26-year-old has made only 13 Premier League starts for Liverpool, scoring three times. He showed a flash of his ability last weekend, netting the opener against Crystal Palace at Anfield. However, this injury denies him the chance to build rhythm and fitness.
Attacking Crisis
Liverpool are already without Mohamed Salah and Hugo Ekitike. Salah suffered a muscle injury against Palace but is expected back before the season ends. Ekitike is out long-term with an Achilles rupture. With Isak doubtful, Slot may deploy Cody Gakpo up front or use Florian Wirtz as a false nine.
Both Liverpool and Manchester United are vying for Champions League qualification, aiming for third place. Sunday's clash could be decisive.
Slot on Transfers
Earlier this week, Slot discussed replacing Salah, emphasizing the need to consider how Isak would benefit. 'Getting the most from Isak is definitely part of thinking about the replacement,' Slot said. 'We try to sign the best possible available player who we can afford.'
United won the reverse fixture at Anfield earlier this season and aim to complete a double over their rivals.
