Liverpool forward Alexander Isak has undergone surgery after sustaining a fractured left leg, the club confirmed on Monday, dealing a major blow to both the player and Arne Slot’s squad midway through the season.
The Reds announced that the 26-year-old Sweden international successfully underwent an operation to repair an ankle injury that included a fracture to his fibula. While Liverpool have not provided a precise timeline for his return, Isak is expected to be sidelined for several months, ruling him out of a significant portion of the campaign.
Injury Sustained After Scoring Against Tottenham
Isak’s injury occurred during Liverpool’s Premier League clash against Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday. The striker came off the bench to score, but was injured moments after striking the ball following a challenge from Spurs defender Micky van de Ven.
Despite getting his shot away, Isak was left in visible pain and was unable to continue. He required assistance from medical staff to leave the pitch, immediately raising concerns over the severity of the injury.
Liverpool later confirmed that the striker had suffered a broken leg and required surgery.
Record Signing Faces Another Setback
Isak joined Liverpool from Newcastle United in the summer for a Premier League record £125 million, arriving with huge expectations. However, his time at Anfield has been disrupted by injuries and inconsistent fitness.
Since making his move in September, Isak has scored three goals in 16 appearances in all competitions, including two goals in 10 Premier League matches. While flashes of his quality have been evident, he has struggled to establish momentum.
This latest injury represents another setback in a turbulent year for the striker.
Troubled Summer and Slow Start at Anfield
Before completing his move to Liverpool, Isak endured a complicated summer. He was left out of Newcastle’s pre-season tour of Asia due to what the club described as a minor thigh injury, amid reports that the player was seeking a transfer.
He later trained alone at former club Real Sociedad before finally sealing his switch to Liverpool on deadline day.
Isak made his debut for the Reds in a Champions League win over Atletico Madrid on 17 September and opened his Liverpool scoring account in a 2–1 victory over Southampton. However, recurring fitness issues prevented him from building consistency.
His most recent goal against Tottenham was expected to kick-start his season — instead, it ended in serious injury.
Major Implications for Liverpool’s Squad
Isak’s absence comes at a challenging time for Liverpool. The club is already dealing with reduced attacking depth, with Mohamed Salah currently away at the Africa Cup of Nations, where he scored the winning goal in Egypt’s opening match.
Although Salah is unlikely to leave in January, Liverpool are increasingly preparing for a future without him, with his current contract set to expire in 2027.
Other attacking options have their own uncertainties:
- Cody Gakpo has been inconsistent and is currently injured, though expected back next month
- Federico Chiesa and Rio Ngumoha have featured sparingly
- Hugo Ekitike has impressed, scoring 11 goals since arriving in the summer, and is now set to lead the line
January Transfer Window Could Be Affected
Isak’s injury could significantly influence Liverpool’s plans for the January transfer window. The club is known to be monitoring versatile forwards, with Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo emerging as a key target.
Semenyo, who can operate on either flank, has a £65 million release clause, and interest is also coming from Manchester City, Manchester United and other top clubs.
Speaking before Isak’s injury, Slot tempered expectations around spending:
“The outside world wants to believe we have unlimited money but that is not true.”
Liverpool spent over £415 million in the summer — a Premier League record — but also recouped more than £187 million in player sales, leaving some room to maneuver if reinforcements are deemed necessary.
A Seismic Blow for Player and Club
Isak’s broken leg is widely seen as a seismic blow for both the player and Liverpool. Just as he appeared ready to turn a corner, the injury halts his momentum and leaves the Reds short-handed during a critical phase of the season.
Manager Arne Slot is expected to address the situation further at his next press conference on Tuesday morning (09:00 GMT).
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