Arne Slot has confirmed that Alexander Isak will not feature in Liverpool’s Champions League round-of-16 second leg against Galatasaray on Wednesday, despite participating in training earlier today.
Liverpool’s record signing has been sidelined for the past three months after breaking his leg in the 2-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur just before Christmas. While recent reports suggested a possible return in early April, Isak remains on the road to full fitness.
The 26-year-old was seen doing individual training at Kirkby, separate from the first team (Liverpool Echo). Speaking at Tuesday’s pre-match press conference, Slot provided an update, noting that Isak is progressing but won’t be back this month.
“Alex is not available [against Galatasaray],” Slot said (via Liverpool Echo). “The fact that you see him on the pitch shows he’s getting closer. He won’t be available [against Brighton] on Saturday either.”
When asked about a potential return date, Slot added: “After months of individual sessions, stepping up to team training is one thing, and then playing in the Premier League or Champions League is another.”
While fans had hoped to see Liverpool’s number 9 back this week, his absence from full team sessions indicates more rehab work is needed. However, his presence on the pitch today is a promising sign, and the international break may allow him to build match fitness ahead of Liverpool’s FA Cup clash with Manchester City on 4 April.
It’s unlikely that Isak will be called up for Sweden’s World Cup play-off against Ukraine, giving him additional time to continue his recovery in Merseyside.
Given the injury setbacks he’s faced since joining Liverpool just over six months ago, Isak’s return will likely be gradual, rather than an immediate return to full match action.
With Hugo Ekitike struggling for goals recently—scoring just once in his last eight appearances—the Swedish striker’s comeback will be a welcome boost whenever it arrives, and it now seems to be approaching soon.
