[디 애슬레틱-온스테인] 이삭, 심각한 다리 부상 우려

AI Translated Image

Despite Liverpool’s 2-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur last Saturday, there are growing concerns as Alexander Isak is reported to have sustained a serious leg injury.

Isak, who came on in the second half for Conor Bradley, scored the opening goal in the 56th minute with a sensational finish off a Florian Wirtz pass. However, immediately after scoring, he lost his balance while getting caught in a sliding tackle by Spurs defender Micky van de Ven. He collapsed on the pitch before he could even celebrate with his teammates.

Isak was helped off the pitch by the medical staff, and Jeremie Frimpong was subbed on in his place.

Isak is currently awaiting an MRI for a detailed diagnosis. While the official results aren't out yet, there is deep concern within the Liverpool camp that the damage to his lower leg is significant.

This injury is a massive blow for Isak, who moved from Newcastle United to Anfield last summer for a record-breaking £125 million. He had just signaled a comeback by scoring his second Premier League goal since the transfer in this London away game, but a long-term layoff would be a huge setback for both the player and the club.

So far, Isak has started 6 league games and 3 Champions League games for Liverpool. In contrast, fellow signing Hugo Ekitike seems to be settling in faster, even scoring the winner against a 9-man Spurs side.

After the match, Liverpool manager Arne Slot expressed satisfaction with the performances of newcomers like Isak and Wirtz but hoped that Isak’s injury wouldn't keep him out for long.

Slot stated, "I haven't spoken to the player directly yet, but Isak’s goal from Florian Wirtz’s assist was encouraging. I think the players and the team as a whole are gradually improving."

He added, "The game wasn't perfect today, especially the last 10 minutes, but we got the points and we're moving in the direction I want. I want to see more clinical finishes and quality passes. It's too early to be pessimistic, and I hope Isak returns to the team soon."

Will Isak's injury force Liverpool's hand in the January transfer window?

Isak’s early days at Liverpool were forgettable due to poor form, but just as he was showing signs of a rebound, he’s been hit with major bad luck. Liverpool is taking the injury seriously because he clutched his leg in agony right after scoring the lead against Spurs. The £125m man has struggled with fitness and conditioning since his move. His absence would be a fatal blow to Arne Slot's attacking rotations and depth. Slot is lucky to have Hugo Ekitike as an alternative, who has netted 5 goals in his last 3 games. However, with Mohamed Salah away for AFCON and Cody Gakpo still recovering from a muscle injury, attacking options are thin. Currently, the only first-team options are Federico Chiesa and 17-year-old prospect Rio Ngumoha, neither of whom have started a league game this season. Slot’s plan to use the Isak-Ekitike synergy during Salah’s absence is now on the verge of collapsing. Now, Slot faces the task of managing Ekitike’s minutes even more carefully. Depending on the test results, Liverpool might have to hunt for a new forward in January. Since they are also short on wingers, it would be more logical to sign a versatile player who can play both as a #9 and on the flanks rather than a traditional striker. The issue is finding a quality player at a reasonable price. Liverpool is eyeing Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo, but his £65m release clause and lack of experience as a center-forward are seen as variables.