Reds’ Injury Concerns Loom Ahead of Manchester City Clash
Liverpool’s impressive 2-0 Champions League victory over Real Madrid at Anfield came at a cost, with defenders Ibrahima Konaté and Conor Bradley suffering late-game injuries. Speaking on Thursday afternoon, head coach Arne Slot admitted he is unsure if either player will be available for Sunday’s crucial Premier League showdown against Manchester City.
“They are still being assessed, so it’s difficult to say where they are in terms of the injuries,” Slot said.
“Let’s wait and see, but it is never a good sign if players… Conor, I had to take him off, and Ibou didn’t walk off the pitch as he should have after such a fantastic game. He should’ve made a round [of the pitch] and clapped the fans, but unfortunately, he couldn’t, so that’s not a good sign,”
“They are still being assessed, and it is so close after the game last night. I just came off the training pitch, so I can’t tell you exactly where they are. We’ll have to wait and see where they are this weekend and after that.”
Alexander-Arnold Ready for City
There was brighter news for Liverpool regarding Trent Alexander-Arnold. The vice-captain, who returned to the Reds’ matchday squad as an unused substitute against Real Madrid, will be fit enough to start against Pep Guardiola’s side.
“Yes, he would,” Slot confirmed when asked if Alexander-Arnold could start.
Uncertain Future for Key Defenders
The potential absence of Konaté and Bradley throws a wrench into Liverpool’s preparations for the challenging Manchester City match. Konaté was instrumental in shutting down Real Madrid’s attack, while Bradley has been a reliable presence on the right flank. Their availability for Sunday’s game remains uncertain, leaving Slot with difficult decisions to make regarding his starting lineup.
Which Liverpool players are facing fitness concerns ahead of the Manchester City match?
## Reds’ Injury Concerns Loom Ahead of Manchester City Clash
**Host:** Welcome back to the show. Joining us now is football journalist, Sarah Evans, to discuss Liverpool’s upcoming clash with Manchester City. Sarah, a brilliant win against Real Madrid in the Champions League, but what’s the mood like around Anfield with some key players potentially missing the City match?
**Sarah Evans:** Thanks for having me. The atmosphere is definitely a bit tense, despite the fantastic win against Real Madrid. As we know, Liverpool has faced a barrage of injuries this season. According to Liverpool’s injury list [[1](https://www.liverpoolfc.com/news/liverpools-injury-list-suspensions-and-availability)], crucial players like Trent Alexander-Arnold, Alisson Becker, Harvey Elliott, and Diogo Jota are all facing fitness concerns. Their availability for the City game is still uncertain, and that’s causing a lot of worry for Liverpool fans.
**Host:** That’s a huge blow, especially given the quality of Manchester City. Do you think Liverpool can pull off another upset, even without a full squad?
**Sarah Evans:** It’s going to be a monumental task. City are playing exceptionally well, and even with a fully fit squad, Liverpool would be the underdogs. Losing players of the caliber of Alexander-Arnold and Alisson Becker would be a massive setback, impacting both defence and attack.
However, Klopp is known for his tactical acumen and ability to motivate his players. If anyone can rally the troops despite the setbacks, it’s him. We might see some surprising lineup choices and a gritty, determined performance from Liverpool.
**Host:** A thrilling prospect, either way. Sarah Evans, thanks for sharing your insights. We’ll all be watching with bated breath to see how this match unfolds.
