Arne Slot Shares Injury Updates Ahead of Manchester City Clash
With Liverpool’s schedule packed with crucial fixtures, Arne Slot had little time to dwell on the draw against Aston Villa before shifting focus to the upcoming showdown with Manchester City. Speaking to the media, the manager provided key injury updates, starting with Cody Gakpo.
“Let’s see, I hope he’ll be available, but I’m not 100% sure. He hasn’t trained with the team yet—maybe a little today. It’ll be a close call,” Slot admitted.
Injury Concerns for Bradley and Gomez
Slot then addressed Conor Bradley’s condition after the defender suffered a knock at Villa Park. The update was far from encouraging:
“No, he still has to come in, so we don’t know yet. I’d be completely surprised if he’s involved against City or Newcastle. You can assume that’s not going to happen.”
Meanwhile, Joe Gomez’s situation appears even more concerning. Slot confirmed that the defender underwent surgery for a hamstring injury and faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
“Joe had surgery, so he’ll be out for a long time—maybe he’ll return just before the season ends.”
Defensive Depth a Growing Concern
The Liverpool boss also provided updates on Diogo Jota and Trent Alexander-Arnold, both of whom are returning from injuries but still require careful management.
“They’re not injured, but they’re coming back from injury. They won’t be able to play 90 minutes five times in 15 days—it’s too risky, as we saw with Conor Bradley.”
With Alexander-Arnold needing to be eased back into full match fitness and two key defensive options unavailable, Liverpool’s depth at the back will be tested in the coming weeks.
Squad Rotation and Key Decisions Ahead
In attack, Darwin Núñez could play a role against City, particularly with Gakpo and Jota not fully fit. Following his costly miss against Villa and recent social media controversy, the match presents a chance for him to silence his critics.
While some fans may regret the club’s decision not to reinforce the defense in January, Jarell Quansah has proven capable of covering at right-back if necessary.
With five matches in just 15 days before a less demanding March schedule, Liverpool must carefully manage their squad to avoid further setbacks—while ensuring they pick up vital points in the title race.