December 23, 2025 – LONDON – Liverpool’s hopes of defending their Premier League title have taken a blow as manager Arne Slot confirmed that forward Alexander Isak will be sidelined for at least two months following a leg injury sustained against Tottenham Hotspur. Slot described the challenge from Tottenham defender Micky van de Ven as “reckless,” resulting in a fractured fibula for the Sweden international.

The injury occurred during Liverpool’s 2-1 victory at Tottenham on Saturday when Isak was in the act of scoring the opening goal. The striker limped off the pitch and underwent surgery to repair the ankle and fibula fracture, according to a club statement.

“It’s going to be a long injury, for a couple of months,” Slot said. “That’s a big disappointment for him and, of course, for us.” Slot highlighted the dangerous nature of Van de Ven’s tackle, contrasting it with an earlier, unintentional challenge from Spurs’ Xavi Simons, which he said would not have caused injury.

Isak’s Challenging Season

This injury adds to a difficult start for Isak since his record-breaking £125 million ($168 million) transfer from Newcastle in September. A dispute with his former club left him behind in preseason fitness, and his campaign was further disrupted by a groin injury. In 16 appearances, the 26-year-old striker has managed just three goals for Liverpool.

With Isak out, Liverpool’s attacking options are now limited. Mohamed Salah is away at the Africa Cup of Nations, and Cody Gakpo will not return from a muscle injury until early 2026. This leaves manager Slot relying on Hugo Ekitike, who has scored five goals in his last four matches, and Federico Chiesa, who has seen limited action this season.

Implications for Liverpool

Isak’s absence raises the possibility of Liverpool seeking reinforcements in the January transfer window, with Bournemouth winger Antoine Semenyo linked to a potential move. The injury may also intensify discussions surrounding Salah, who had expressed frustrations with the club and Slot, leading to a brief omission from the squad for a Champions League match against Inter Milan.

Despite the setback, Liverpool’s Premier League campaign has shown signs of recovery, with the team climbing to fifth in the table after extending an unbeaten run to five games. Liverpool will aim to continue their resurgence as they host bottom-of-the-table Wolves on Saturday.