Liverpool injury update: Major worry before Man City 2026

Liverpool injury update: Cody Gakpo and Alexander Isak returned early from international duty with knocks, creating selection uncertainty ahead of Liverpool’s Premier League meeting with Manchester City on Sunday, October 11.

Liverpool injury update

Liverpool face a fresh selection problem after two of their forwards returned to Merseyside from international duty with injuries. Netherlands winger Cody Gakpo left the Netherlands camp following a heavy challenge in Serbia and underwent scans that ruled him out of the remaining fixtures in the international window. Alexander Isak also rejoined Liverpool early after picking up a thigh issue while playing for Sweden.

What happened to Cody Gakpo and Alexander Isak

Gakpo was tackled by Serbia midfielder Saša Lukić in the 12th minute of the match in Belgrade and was forced off shortly afterwards for further treatment to his left ankle. Scans carried out the following morning led to the decision that he would not take part in the Netherlands’ remaining internationals against Greece and Serbia.

Isak completed the full 90 minutes for Sweden in their 2-1 win over Romania and scored the opener, but Sweden manager Graham Potter confirmed the striker had a minor thigh problem. Potter said: “He’s got a small problem with his thigh. It’s not a big one but because of the amount of games we’ve got in a small space of time, he won’t be able to make those. Not a big one, but frustrating for him, and obviously for us.”

Immediate impact on Liverpool’s squad

Both players’ returns to Liverpool raise fresh doubts over selection for the Premier League clash with Manchester City at Anfield on Sunday, October 11. The pair have been important attacking options: Isak has started this season strongly, scoring four goals in five Premier League appearances, while Gakpo has been used as a wide option and rotation attacker.

The report also noted that Liverpool boss Andoni Iraola will be hoping Gakpo is fit in time for the fixture after watching Isak sustain a minor injury on international duty. The club will now oversee medical checks, monitor both players’ recoveries and make final availability decisions closer to kick-off.

Why this Liverpool injury update matters

Losing one of these forwards would reduce Jurgen Klopp’s—or the manager in charge at the time—attacking options against a Manchester City side renowned for pressing and quick transitions. Matchday selection could change Liverpool’s tactical approach, forcing greater reliance on other squad members or youth prospects to fill wide and central attacking roles.

Fitness updates coming from club medical staff will therefore be followed closely by supporters and media. Availability decisions for high-profile fixtures are typically confirmed in the club’s pre-match communications and on the official squad list published 24–48 hours before kick-off.

Background and recent form

Isak endured a difficult first season following his move from Newcastle, but has returned to form this campaign with a promising goals tally in the Premier League so far. Gakpo has been a regular selection in the Netherlands setup and provides Liverpool with options on either flank or through the middle.

International breaks often bring the risk of knocks and fatigue; this window has already seen both players affected, which underlines the ongoing balancing act clubs face between player release and squad protection ahead of crucial domestic fixtures.

What Happens Next

Liverpool’s medical team will provide official updates after conducting further assessments. The club is expected to release availability information in the normal pre-match period before the October 11 fixture against Manchester City. If either player is ruled out, Liverpool’s manager will need to confirm tactical adjustments and starting XI changes in the final team announcement.

Supporters should watch for the club’s official statements and the manager’s pre-match press conference for definitive information on both Gakpo and Isak.

Source: Original report

Related: More Liverpool injury update coverage