Liverpool’s preparations for the upcoming run of games have taken an unexpected hit, with Arne Slot confirming a double injury blow just as the squad returns from international duty.
Speaking before the Nottingham Forest match, the Liverpool boss revealed that both Conor Bradley and Florian Wirtz will not be available, describing the situation as “far from ideal” given the club’s packed fixture list.
Wirtz Sidelined as Adaptation Questions Intensify
The absence of Wirtz adds another complication to what has already been a challenging start to his life at Liverpool. The German media recently questioned whether the 22-year-old has settled quickly enough, with Sport Bild even hinting that Mo Salah had overlooked him in certain attacking situations.
Slot confirmed the attacker is dealing with a muscle problem, though he suggested the issue “shouldn’t keep him out too long.” Nevertheless, losing one of the side’s main creative sparks comes at a time when chances have been hard to produce.
Bradley’s Injury More Serious
Conor Bradley’s situation is even more worrying. Slot revealed that the Northern Ireland defender could face “around 22 days” on the sidelines — unless, in his words, “a miracle happens.”
Bradley’s injury arrives shortly after he caught attention for unexpectedly playing as the furthest forward player for Northern Ireland during the international break, a role that had already sparked discussions about potential tactical experimentation at Liverpool.
With Jeremie Frimpong also unavailable, Slot admitted that “one or two players may have to operate in roles they’re not used to.” Joe Gomez was mentioned as a possibility, but Slot noted concerns over the Englishman’s workload, as he has only completed two full 90-minute matches in 2025.
Liverpool Facing Selection Headaches
Over the next three weeks, Liverpool have little room for error, and the loss of two important contributors makes the challenge even greater — especially after the defeat to Manchester City exposed the need for greater squad depth in key areas.
There was at least some encouraging news: Alisson Becker has returned to full training, and Andy Robertson is now back with the squad. Even so, the positives are overshadowed by the timing of the new injuries.
As Slot put it, “we’ve got some issues after the international break,” and with tactical reshuffles on the horizon, the coming matches could reveal more about Liverpool’s resilience than any earlier win this season.
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