Liverpool injury news has delivered a major setback ahead of the Premier League clash with Manchester City. Alexander Isak and Cody Gakpo have both been ruled out of Sunday’s match at Anfield after suffering injuries during international duty.
Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola must now find attacking solutions for one of the most important fixtures of the early 2026–27 season. With Hugo Ekitike also unavailable, the Reds face Manchester City without several key attacking options.Liverpool injury news
Isak sustained a thigh injury while representing Sweden against Romania, while Gakpo suffered an ankle problem during the Netherlands’ meeting with Serbia.
Neither injury is currently expected to keep the players out for an extended period. However, their absence creates a significant selection challenge for Liverpool.
Manchester City arrive at Anfield after winning their opening five Premier League matches. Liverpool, meanwhile, will be eager to close the gap at the top of the table.
The latest Liverpool injury news raises an important question: can the Reds challenge the league leaders without two of their most dangerous forwards?
Liverpool Confirm Isak and Gakpo Will Miss Man City Clash
Iraola confirmed the double injury setback during his pre-match press conference on Friday.
“Alex Isak and Cody Gakpo will not play the game,” the Liverpool manager said.
Both forwards returned from international duty with injuries and subsequently withdrew from their respective national squads.Liverpool injury news
Liverpool’s medical team has assessed the players, but neither has recovered sufficiently to feature against Manchester City.
Gakpo is dealing with an ankle injury following a heavy challenge. Although the Dutch international has resumed some individual training, he continues to experience discomfort.
Isak’s problem involves his thigh muscle. Liverpool are taking a cautious approach because returning too early could aggravate the injury.Liverpool injury news
The club has not confirmed specific return dates for either player.
For now, their absence leaves Liverpool with fewer options in attack ahead of a match that could influence the early Premier League title race.
Alexander Isak Injury Update: What Happened?
Alexander Isak suffered a thigh injury while playing for Sweden against Romania during the international break.
The problem forced him to return to Liverpool for further medical assessment.
Although the injury is not currently considered serious, Liverpool will want to ensure that the striker has recovered fully before allowing him to return to competitive football.
Thigh injuries can affect acceleration, sprinting and changes of direction. These movements are particularly important for Isak, whose pace and intelligent positioning make him a dangerous attacking threat.
His ability to exploit spaces behind defensive lines could have been valuable against Manchester City’s high defensive line.Liverpool injury news
Without him, Liverpool may struggle to turn defensive recoveries into dangerous counterattacks.
When Will Alexander Isak Return?
Liverpool have not announced a confirmed return date for Isak.
The initial assessment suggests that the injury is not expected to keep him out for a lengthy period. However, his recovery will depend on how the muscle responds to treatment and training.Liverpool injury news
Liverpool’s medical staff will monitor his progress before determining when he can return.
Supporters should wait for official club updates rather than assume that he will be available for the next fixture.
For now, one thing is clear: Isak will miss the Manchester City match.
Why Is Isak’s Absence a Major Blow?
Isak has made an encouraging start to the 2026–27 Premier League campaign, scoring four goals in Liverpool’s opening five league matches.
He also scored the decisive goal in the 1–0 victory over Bournemouth before the international break.
His finishing has helped Liverpool remain unbeaten during the opening weeks of the season.
However, Isak offers more than goals. His movement stretches opposition defences, while his pace allows Liverpool to attack quickly when possession changes hands.
Against Manchester City, these qualities could have been especially important.
City are comfortable controlling possession and pushing their defensive line forward. A striker who can exploit the space behind their defenders can create problems even when his team has limited possession.
Liverpool must now find another way to threaten City’s defence.
Cody Gakpo Injury Update: Why He Is Missing the Match
Cody Gakpo has also been ruled out after suffering an ankle injury while representing the Netherlands against Serbia.
The injury followed a heavy challenge during the international fixture. Gakpo initially attempted to continue but could not complete the match. Liverpool injury news
He subsequently withdrew from international duty and returned to Liverpool for assessment.
Iraola confirmed that the forward continues to experience pain in his ankle. Although Gakpo has undertaken individual training, he is not fit enough to face Manchester City.
When Will Cody Gakpo Return?
Liverpool have not provided a definite return date for Gakpo.
His recovery will depend on how quickly the discomfort improves and whether he can resume full training without complications.
Ankle injuries can be particularly challenging for attacking players because dribbling, turning and accelerating place repeated demands on the joint.
Liverpool will want Gakpo to regain full confidence in his movement before returning to competitive action.
His absence against City is a setback, but the current assessment does not suggest a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
Why Liverpool Will Miss Gakpo
Gakpo’s versatility makes him an important member of Liverpool’s attack.
He can operate on the left wing, move into central positions or play as a centre-forward when required.
His ability to carry the ball, combine with teammates and create shooting opportunities gives Liverpool several tactical options.
Against Manchester City, the Reds may need to attack quickly during transitions and retain possession long enough for midfield runners to join the attack.
Gakpo can contribute in both situations.
His absence is particularly damaging because Isak is unavailable at the same time. Liverpool are losing two forwards who offer different ways to trouble an opposition defence.
Liverpool’s Attacking Injury Crisis Deepens
The problems facing Iraola extend beyond Isak and Gakpo.
Hugo Ekitike remains unavailable while recovering from an Achilles injury. As a result, Liverpool have fewer established attacking options for Sunday’s fixture.
The manager must consider whether to change his formation, move a winger into a central role or give a younger player an opportunity.
Each option carries potential benefits and risks.
Liverpool still possess attacking talent, but their choices are considerably more limited than they would have been with a fully fit squad.
The latest Liverpool injury news could therefore influence not only the starting lineup but also the team’s overall tactical approach.
Could Lewis Koumas Start Against Manchester City?
Lewis Koumas is one possible option for Liverpool.
The Welsh forward has impressed the coaching staff and is among the players who could receive a more prominent attacking role.
Koumas offers energy, movement and a willingness to attack space. His direct approach could help Liverpool stretch Manchester City’s defensive line.
A match at Anfield against the league leaders would represent a significant test, however.
Koumas may not have Isak’s experience or Gakpo’s established reputation, but he could provide a different attacking threat.
How Koumas Could Help Liverpool
Manchester City’s defensive structure often forces opponents to make quick decisions when they win possession.
Koumas could exploit this by making early runs, chasing passes into space and forcing defenders to turn towards their own goal.
His movement might also create opportunities for midfielders arriving late in the attacking third.
The main concern is experience. Starting against Manchester City is very different from making a brief substitute appearance.
Iraola must decide whether Koumas is ready to start or would be more effective as an option from the bench.
Could Florian Wirtz Play as a False Nine?
Another possibility is to use Florian Wirtz in a central attacking role.
Wirtz is comfortable operating between midfield and attack. He can receive the ball in tight spaces, turn away from opponents and create opportunities with his passing.
As a false nine, he would move into deeper positions rather than remain alongside City’s centre-backs throughout the match.
This approach could create tactical problems for Manchester City. Their defenders would have to decide whether to follow Wirtz into midfield or maintain their defensive positions.
Either decision could open spaces for Liverpool’s wide attackers.
However, using a false nine can reduce a team’s presence inside the penalty area.
Liverpool would need their wingers and attacking midfielders to make regular forward runs. Otherwise, City could control possession without facing enough pressure around their goal.
Could Bradley Barcola Provide Another Solution?
Bradley Barcola could offer Liverpool another attacking option because of his pace and technical ability.
Although he is naturally comfortable on the left wing, his versatility could allow him to operate in different positions across the front line.
His ability to run directly at defenders would be useful if Liverpool spend long periods without possession.
A central role would require tactical adjustments. Barcola would need to coordinate his movement with Liverpool’s midfielders and compete physically with City’s defenders.
Nevertheless, his versatility gives Iraola another possible solution to the attacking shortage.
Federico Chiesa Could Return to the Squad
There is some encouraging news for Liverpool.
Federico Chiesa has been making progress in his recovery from a back-related injury and could return to the matchday squad.
The Italian has been working towards full fitness after missing the opening weeks of the campaign.
However, his lack of competitive minutes presents a challenge.
Even if Chiesa is available, Iraola may prefer to use him as a substitute rather than ask him to play the entire match.
His pace and direct running could provide Liverpool with an additional attacking threat during the second half.
Ultimately, his involvement will depend on the final assessment of his fitness.
Jeremy Jacquet Provides Positive Defensive News
Liverpool have received a boost at the other end of the pitch, with Jeremy Jacquet recovering from a hamstring concern.
The French defender had been a doubt after experiencing discomfort during international duty. However, he has returned to training and is expected to be available for selection.
His availability should provide greater defensive stability as Liverpool prepare to face Manchester City’s dangerous attack.
The Reds cannot afford to allow their attacking absences to affect their organisation at the back.
With Erling Haaland posing a major threat in front of goal, Liverpool will need to remain disciplined throughout the match.
Liverpool Injury List Before Manchester City Match
Here is the injury situation ahead of the Premier League fixture.
| Player | Injury or concern | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Alexander Isak | Thigh injury | Ruled out |
| Cody Gakpo | Ankle injury | Ruled out |
| Hugo Ekitike | Achilles injury | Unavailable |
| Conor Bradley | Long-term injury recovery | Unavailable |
| Giovanni Leoni | Knee injury recovery | Unavailable |
| Federico Chiesa | Back-related injury | Possible return |
| Jeremy Jacquet | Hamstring concern | Expected to be available |
The Liverpool injury list highlights the difficulties facing Iraola.
Several attacking options are unavailable, while other players are still working towards full match fitness.
The manager must balance the need to field a competitive team against the risk of asking recovering players to do too much.
Player availability can change. Check Liverpool’s official team news for the latest confirmed information.
How Could Liverpool Line Up Against Manchester City?
Liverpool’s starting lineup will depend on Iraola’s tactical approach and the players available after the final training sessions.
One possibility is to use Wirtz centrally, with Barcola and another wide attacker providing pace on either side.
Dominik Szoboszlai could operate in an advanced midfield role, while Ryan Gravenberch and Alexis Mac Allister provide support behind him.
Alternatively, Koumas could start as a more conventional forward, allowing Liverpool to maintain a familiar attacking structure.
Predicted Liverpool Lineup
Alisson; Araujo, Jacquet, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Ngumoha, Szoboszlai, Barcola; Wirtz.
This is a predicted lineup, not a confirmed team selection.
Iraola may make different choices depending on player fitness and the tactical challenges presented by Manchester City.
The absence of Isak and Gakpo means Liverpool must find a balance between attacking movement, possession and defensive responsibility.
Why Manchester City Will Be Difficult to Beat
Manchester City arrive at Anfield with five victories from their opening five Premier League matches.
Their perfect start under Enzo Maresca has established them as early contenders for the title.
City possess the technical quality to dominate possession, but they can also create chances quickly when opponents leave space.
Erling Haaland remains a major threat in front of goal. Liverpool’s defenders must limit the service he receives and avoid leaving dangerous spaces around the penalty area.
The absence of Isak and Gakpo could also affect Liverpool’s pressing structure.
Both forwards can apply pressure to defenders and help their team recover possession. Without them, Iraola may need to adjust how Liverpool press from the front.
Those tactical changes could influence the entire match.
Liverpool’s Unbeaten Start Faces Its Toughest Test
Liverpool have avoided defeat in their opening five Premier League matches, recording two wins and three draws.
However, that record leaves them six points behind Manchester City.
Sunday’s fixture therefore carries considerable importance for both sides.
A Liverpool victory would reduce the gap and provide a significant boost to confidence. A defeat would allow City to extend their advantage at the top of the table.
The challenge becomes greater because Isak and Gakpo will not be available.
Liverpool must find a way to remain dangerous in attack while preventing City from controlling the game.
Their defensive organisation, midfield creativity and ability to exploit transitions could determine the outcome.
How Liverpool Can Hurt Manchester City Without Isak and Gakpo
Despite their injury problems, Liverpool still have several ways to trouble the visitors.
1. Attack quickly during transitions
Manchester City often commit players forward when they have possession. Liverpool could exploit the spaces left behind by winning the ball and moving forward quickly.
2. Use midfield creativity
Wirtz and Szoboszlai can look for spaces between opposition players. Their movement and passing could help Liverpool create opportunities without relying on a traditional centre-forward.
3. Make the most of set pieces
Corners and free kicks could become particularly important when attacking options are limited. Virgil van Dijk and other defenders provide an aerial threat.
4. Use the Anfield atmosphere
A strong start could help Liverpool build momentum. The home crowd may encourage the team to press aggressively and put Manchester City under early pressure.
Liverpool will need to execute these plans effectively if they are to overcome the absence of two important forwards.
Manchester City’s Financial Controversy Adds to the Attention
The fixture also takes place against the background of Manchester City’s financial-rule controversy.
An independent commission has found the club guilty of serious breaches of Premier League financial regulations. City have denied wrongdoing and appealed the findings.
The final consequences remain unresolved.
The controversy has attracted attention, but Liverpool’s immediate concern is the football itself.
The Reds must prepare to face a team in excellent form without two key attacking players. Maintaining concentration and tactical discipline will be essential.
For more context, read our coverage of the Manchester City financial verdict.
What Did Andoni Iraola Say About Liverpool’s Injury Problems?
Iraola acknowledged the frustration of losing players during international duty.
Club managers often have to wait for medical updates while their players represent their countries. In this case, Liverpool have lost two important forwards before a major league fixture.
The manager has indicated that neither Isak nor Gakpo is expected to face a lengthy absence.
His immediate priority is finding solutions for Sunday’s match.
Koumas could receive an opportunity, while the versatility of Wirtz and Barcola offers further possibilities.
Liverpool will also need to manage their squad carefully as Premier League and European fixtures approach.
Could the International Break Affect Liverpool’s Season?
The injuries to Isak and Gakpo highlight a familiar challenge for football clubs.
International fixtures can disrupt domestic campaigns, particularly when players return with injuries.
Clubs must balance the demands of domestic leagues, European competitions and international football. Players also face frequent travel, limited recovery time and matches played at high intensity.
For Liverpool, the consequences are immediate. Two important forwards will miss a fixture that could influence the early Premier League title race.
The club will hope both players recover quickly and avoid further setbacks.
Their situation demonstrates how injuries sustained away from club football can affect tactical plans and squad selection.
Liverpool vs Manchester City: Match Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Fixture | Liverpool vs Manchester City |
| Competition | Premier League 2026–27 |
| Date | Sunday, 11 October 2026 |
| Kick-off | 4:30 PM BST |
| Venue | Anfield, Liverpool |
| Liverpool manager | Andoni Iraola |
| Manchester City manager | Enzo Maresca |
| Liverpool league position | Sixth |
| Manchester City league position | First |
Manchester City will attempt to maintain their perfect start, while Liverpool will look to protect their unbeaten record and close the gap at the top.
The match promises to be one of the biggest occasions of the Premier League weekend.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Alexander Isak playing against Manchester City?
No. Isak has been ruled out of Liverpool’s Premier League match against Manchester City on 11 October 2026 because of a thigh injury.
Is Cody Gakpo injured?
Yes. Gakpo suffered an ankle injury while representing the Netherlands against Serbia and will miss the Manchester City match.
What happened to Alexander Isak?
Isak sustained a thigh injury during international duty with Sweden against Romania. Liverpool are monitoring his recovery.
When will Alexander Isak return?
Liverpool have not confirmed a return date. His availability will depend on his recovery, medical assessments and progress in training.
When will Cody Gakpo return?
Gakpo does not have a confirmed return date. Liverpool are assessing his ankle injury and monitoring his rehabilitation.
Will Hugo Ekitike play against Manchester City?
No. According to the article’s injury update, Ekitike remains unavailable while recovering from an Achilles injury.
Who could replace Alexander Isak?
Lewis Koumas is one option. Liverpool could also use Florian Wirtz or Bradley Barcola in a central attacking role.
Could Lewis Koumas start against Manchester City?
Koumas is one of the possible attacking options, although Liverpool have not confirmed their starting lineup.
Is Federico Chiesa fit for Liverpool?
Chiesa has been making progress in his recovery and could return to the matchday squad. His participation is not confirmed.
Is Jeremy Jacquet available against Manchester City?
Jacquet has returned to training after a hamstring concern and is expected to be available, according to the article’s update.
When is Liverpool vs Manchester City?
The match is scheduled for Sunday, 11 October 2026, at Anfield, with kick-off at 4:30 PM BST.
Can Liverpool beat Manchester City without Isak and Gakpo?
Liverpool remain capable of winning, but the injuries make the challenge more difficult. Their defensive organisation, midfield creativity and ability to create chances without a recognised first-choice striker will be important.
Final Thoughts
Liverpool could hardly have chosen a worse moment to lose Alexander Isak and Cody Gakpo.
Both forwards have contributed to the team’s early-season performances, and their absence leaves Iraola facing difficult decisions before Manchester City’s visit to Anfield.
The manager must decide whether to trust a younger forward, move an established attacker into an unfamiliar position or change Liverpool’s attacking structure.
There is some encouragement in the fact that neither injury is expected to be serious. However, that offers little immediate comfort before such an important fixture.
Manchester City arrive in excellent form after winning their opening five league matches. Liverpool, meanwhile, have the advantage of playing at home and an opportunity to deliver a result that could reshape the early title race.
The latest Liverpool injury news has complicated preparations, but it has not eliminated the Reds’ chances.
Sunday’s match will reveal whether Liverpool have enough attacking depth to compete with the league leaders.
For Iraola, it is a difficult selection problem. For the players who step in, it is an opportunity to make an impression.
For Liverpool supporters, it promises to be another tense afternoon at Anfield.
Internal Links
- Manchester City Financial Verdict: Latest Developments
- Manchester City Appeal: Can They Overturn the Premier League Financial Verdict?
- Manchester United vs Manchester City
- Premier League Transfer Window 2026
Outbound Links
- Liverpool FC Official Website — official club news and injury updates.
- Premier League Official Website — fixtures, results and league standings.
- Manchester City Official Website — official Manchester City news and team updates.