Liverpool have shared fresh images of Alexander Isak continuing his recovery from injury, offering a positive fitness update ahead of the FA Cup clash with Brighton at Anfield.Via Liverpoolfc.com, the club confirmed that the Sweden international is progressing well in his rehabilitation programme at the AXA Training Centre.The official update read: “Alexander Isak continued his injury rehabilitation at the AXA Training Centre on Friday.“The Liverpool striker has been sidelined from match action since requiring surgery in December.“Isak sustained an ankle injury that included a fibula fracture while scoring in the Reds’ 2-1 win at Tottenham Hotspur.”The images show the 26-year-old No.9 working on the indoor pitch, jogging and striking a ball, which suggests that the next phase of his recovery is underway.What Isak’s injury return means for LiverpoolArne Slot previously described the injury as a “big, big big disappointment” and stated that the absence would be “a couple of months,” underlining the severity of the setback.Alexander Isak has not featured since December after undergoing surgery on an ankle injury that included a fibula fracture, and his return to ball work is therefore a significant milestone.While he will not be available for Brighton in the FA Cup, these pictures point towards a gradual reintegration into team training in the coming weeks.Liverpool sit sixth in the Premier League on 42 points and remain in pursuit of the Champions League places, so squad depth in the forward areas will be crucial during the run-in.Isak’s season so far in numbersAlexander Isak scores against SpursAlexander Isak has endured a stop-start campaign, playing 16 matches in all competitions, scoring three goals and registering one assist in 781 minutes.Stat 2025/26 (All comps)Appearances 16Goals 3Assists 1Minutes 781Those numbers reflect limited rhythm rather than a lack of quality.There has been growing discussion about whether Isak has been judged too harshly, particularly given that he joined late in the window and missed key conditioning phases under Slot’s intense system.Availability has been the main challenge.The Swedish striker has struggled for sustained fitness and game time, but the latest training images indicate that he is slowly building towards full readiness.For now, the key takeaway is positive.Alexander Isak is back working with the ball, back running, and edging closer to giving Liverpool another attacking option at a critical stage of the season.UncategorizedPost navigationForget about Guehi: Liverpool reportedly ready to ‘table a bid’ for ‘indispensable’ centre-backBREAKING NEWS: Slot Hails Midfield “Magician” After Sunderland MasterclassRelated PostsLiverpool keeping close tabs on £80m ‘phenomenon’ who ‘matches perfectly’ with FSG’s strategyLiverpool are reportedly keeping close tabs on a player from Richard Hughes’ former club Bournemouth. The Reds’ sporting director oversaw…Liverpool injury list and expected comeback dates in full after sickening blow for Alexander IsakThe 2-1 win over Tottenham Hotspur has been overshadowed by news of a suspected broken leg for Alexander Isak, who…Man City injury and fitness latest ahead of Liverpool clashLiverpool face Man City at Anfield on Sunday knowing Pep Guardiola’s squad is not at full strength, with several key…Leave

Liverpool left the Stadium of Light with exactly what they needed — three valuable points, a clean sheet, and momentum in their push up the table.

But the victory came at a cost.

As the celebrations faded, concern quickly replaced relief. Yet another injury has struck — and this one could have serious consequences for Arne Slot’s already stretched squad.

Endo’s Night Ends in Pain

Wataru Endo was handed a surprise start at right-back during the 1–0 win over Sunderland. With several regular options unavailable, Slot turned to the experienced midfielder to fill the gap in defence.

For much of the match, Liverpool remained compact and disciplined. Then, midway through the second half, the mood shifted dramatically.

Endo made an intelligent interception at the back post — the kind of defensive awareness managers value highly. But as he landed, his foot appeared to twist awkwardly underneath him. The reaction was immediate. Something wasn’t right.

Initially, there was hope. After receiving treatment on the pitch, Endo bravely attempted to continue. That brief return gave supporters reason to believe the issue might only be temporary discomfort.

Unfortunately, that optimism didn’t last.

Within minutes, it became clear he could not carry on. Medical staff rushed back onto the pitch, and Endo was eventually stretchered off with his leg supported. Joe Gomez replaced him as Liverpool held onto their narrow lead.

After the match, Slot did little to calm fears. The manager admitted the injury “doesn’t look good” and suggested the Japanese international could face a lengthy spell on the sidelines. Such wording rarely signals a quick recovery.

A Tough Break for a Player Waiting for His Chance

The timing feels especially cruel.

Endo has not been a regular starter in the Premier League this season. Opportunities have been limited, and when one finally arrived, it ended in distressing fashion.

Observers noted his determination to continue playing despite clear discomfort. That decision reflected his mentality — not the severity of the injury. Players desperate to impress often push beyond the pain barrier, but sometimes the body refuses to cooperate.

Slot even praised Endo’s resilience, revealing that the midfielder stayed on just long enough to help defend a set piece before admitting he could go no further. That detail speaks volumes about his commitment.

Why This Injury Hurts More Than Most

In isolation, losing a versatile squad player is manageable. In Liverpool’s current situation, however, this setback carries greater weight.

Endo was deployed at right-back because several other options are already unavailable. Conor Bradley remains sidelined. Jeremie Frimpong has been out. Other players have been used there in emergency situations. Gomez himself has only recently returned to fitness.

In other words, Endo wasn’t a tactical gamble — he was the best available solution.

Now that solution has disappeared.

Constant reshuffling at right-back disrupts more than just one position. It affects build-up play, defensive balance, pressing patterns, and the chemistry on the right side of the pitch. Stability in that role is vital, and Liverpool have rarely enjoyed it this season.

A Pattern That’s Becoming Hard to Ignore

There’s growing frustration around the recurring issues in that position. Every time a temporary fix is found, another setback follows.

It creates a chain reaction: one injury forces adjustment, the adjustment suffers a problem, and the cycle continues.

For Slot, this means more improvisation. And improvisation, while sometimes necessary, rarely offers long-term security.

What Happens Next?

Attention now turns to Liverpool’s upcoming FA Cup clash with Brighton. Supporters will be anxiously awaiting a medical update on Endo. If scans confirm significant ankle or foot damage, the timeline could stretch into weeks — possibly longer.

In the short term, Gomez appears the most natural replacement if his fitness allows consistent minutes. If Frimpong is close to returning, his comeback would provide timely relief.

If not, Slot may once again be forced to use players out of position — a risky approach that carries tactical compromises.

Three Points — But at What Cost?

Liverpool secured the result they needed. The clean sheet and defensive discipline offered encouragement.

Yet once again, victory has been overshadowed by injury concerns.

This season has developed a familiar pattern: fight through adversity, earn the points, and then add another name to the medical list.

How long can that cycle continue before it takes a heavier toll?

For now, Liverpool march on. But the price of progress is rising — and the squad is being tested like never before.

Arne Slot has sparked huge debate across the football world after delivering stunning praise for one of his midfield stars following a sensational performance against Sunderland A.F.C.. The Dutch manager did not hold back, describing the player as a “magician” on the ball and suggesting his current form rivals — and even surpasses — two of world football’s brightest midfield talents.

A Performance That Turned Heads

The midfielder delivered a commanding display that left fans and pundits in awe. His sharp movement, lightning-fast decision-making, and fearless attacking intent were on full display throughout the match. He repeatedly tested Sunderland’s defense, unleashing quick shots and creating dangerous opportunities that nearly resulted in multiple goals.

Observers noted how effortlessly he controlled the tempo of the game, dictating play with confidence and creativity. His performance symbolized a player evolving rapidly and showing clear signs of mastering the demands of top-level English football.

Slot’s Bold Comparison

Slot’s post-match comments quickly made headlines after he compared the player’s current form to that of global superstars Jude Bellingham and Pedal

According to Slot, the midfielder’s recent displays show a footballer who is adapting at an extraordinary pace, improving his attacking instincts and overall influence on matches. The manager emphasized the player’s ability to release shots quicker and position himself more intelligently — traits he believes define elite midfielders in modern football.

Rising Confidence and Growing Influence

The performance against Sunderland appears to be another major step in the player’s development. Fans have praised his confidence, composure, and willingness to take responsibility in high-pressure moments. Analysts suggest that if his current trajectory continues, he could soon establish himself among the most influential midfielders in European football.

Debate Ignites Among Fans and Experts

Slot’s statement has already ignited intense debate among supporters and football analysts. While many agree the midfielder is enjoying outstanding form, comparisons with established global stars have divided opinion across social media and sports platforms.

What remains undeniable, however, is that the player’s recent performances have captured attention and excitement — and if he continues producing displays like the one against Sunderland, the conversation surrounding his place among football’s elite is only just beginning.

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Darwin Nunez has suffered a significant setback at Al-Hilal after being excluded from the club’s Saudi Pro League squad list following the arrival of Karim Benzema.

The Uruguayan forward, who joined the Saudi giants with high expectations, now finds himself paying the price for strict foreign player regulations — with Benzema’s registration forcing a difficult reshuffle behind the scenes.

Foreign Player Rule Forces Sacrifice

Saudi Pro League regulations permit only eight foreign players born before 2003 to be registered in a 25-man domestic squad.

With Benzema occupying one of those valuable slots after his move from , Al-Hilal were left with no room to accommodate Nunez for league competition.

The consequence? Nunez will only be eligible for continental fixtures in the AFC Champions League for now, while missing out on domestic league action unless circumstances shift.

Inzaghi Breaks His Silence

Head coach admitted the decision was far from easy.

He explained that squad limitations left him with little flexibility, stressing that both Nunez and Pablo remain strong professionals. According to the manager, the situation was handled respectfully, with clear communication delivered directly to the affected players.

Still, in football, respect doesn’t guarantee minutes on the pitch.

The Numbers Paint a Conflicted Picture

Nunez’s 2025/26 Saudi Pro League campaign tells a mixed story:

• 16 appearances
• 6 goals
• 4 assists
• 11.48 expected goals (xG)
• 14 big chances missed

On paper, the output looks respectable. But the missed opportunities continue to raise familiar questions about his finishing consistency — an issue that followed him during his spell at .

He often divides opinion: explosive movement, relentless energy, but moments of frustration in front of goal. Chaos can unsettle defenders — but without ruthless precision, chaos alone isn’t enough.

From Premier League Winner to League Omission

Nunez departed Liverpool as a Premier League champion, scoring 40 goals in 143 appearances. His Saudi move was expected to be a fresh start.

Yet just days ago, reports were already linking him with a potential switch to — a sign that uncertainty may already be surrounding his future.

Now, with Benzema preferred and squad limitations tightening the squeeze, Nunez faces a defining moment in his career.

For a striker who thrives on rhythm and confidence, watching from the sidelines could prove the toughest challenge yet.

The next move may define everything.