Liverpool’s preparations for the return of Premier League football have been plunged into chaos following a nightmare international break that has left new manager Andoni Iraola facing a double injury crisis.
The Anfield medical staff are currently conducting urgent assessments after forward Cody Gakpo was forced off just 16 minutes into his appearance for the Netherlands on Friday evening. The 27-year-old, who has emerged as a vital creative hub under Iraola’s new system, appeared to suffer the injury following a robust challenge from Ipswich Town’s Sasa Lukic.
Although Gakpo attempted to play on, he eventually signaled to the bench in significant discomfort, clutching his lower left leg. He was seen grimacing as he hobbled from the pitch, leaving supporters and coaching staff alike in a state of apprehension. With two goals and four assists already to his name this season—including a prolific partnership with striker Alexander Isak—Gakpo’s potential absence would be a significant blow to Liverpool’s attacking fluidity.
The injury to the Dutchman compounds an already difficult week for Iraola, as the club confirmed earlier today that Alexander Isak has been forced to withdraw from Sweden’s squad. While the club has characterized the Swede’s issue as “minor,” the decision to recall him to the AXA Training Centre for immediate evaluation suggests that both of the Reds’ primary attacking threats are now in a race against time to be fit.
The timing could not be worse for Liverpool. With the international break now entering its final stretch, the club’s focus is rapidly turning toward a season-defining fixture against Manchester City at Anfield on October 11. The match is already being billed as a “mouthwatering” clash against Enzo Maresca’s side, and the prospect of facing the reigning champions without either Gakpo or Isak will be a daunting scenario for the coaching staff to navigate.
Gakpo’s injury is particularly distressing given his personal trajectory. The forward was the subject of intense transfer speculation throughout the summer, with Liverpool ultimately blocking a late move to Manchester City after failing to secure alternative targets like Yankuba Minteh and Ismaila Sarr. Having committed his immediate future to Anfield, the Dutchman had begun to repay that faith with stellar performances, making his current physical setback all the more frustrating.
As the Netherlands prepare for upcoming fixtures against Greece and a return leg against Serbia, Liverpool will be hoping that these early signals of concern do not develop into long-term absences. For now, the Anfield faithful are left waiting anxiously for updates on their star duo as the club balances the disappointment of the international window against the looming shadow of the league campaign’s biggest test to date.
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