Liverpool forward Alexander Isak is a major doubt for this weekend’s Premier League match at Brentford after suffering a groin injury during Thursday’s 5-1 win over Eintracht Frankfurt in the Europa League, manager Arne Slot confirmed on Friday.
Isak, who was substituted at half-time in Germany, reported discomfort in his groin following the match. Defender Jeremie Frimpong also sustained a hamstring injury, while midfielder Ryan Gravenberch was absent from the squad due to an ankle issue.
“Jeremie is not in a good place,” Slot told reporters. “He’s definitely not going to play today, tomorrow, or next week. It’s a hamstring injury, so that’s going to take a while. Alex is not too bad but a question mark for the weekend. The same goes for Ryan.”
Liverpool’s emphatic victory in Frankfurt came as a relief after a run of four consecutive defeats across all competitions — their worst sequence in 11 years. However, the win came at a cost, with several key players now facing fitness concerns ahead of the trip to west London.
Among those under scrutiny is Mohamed Salah, who was left out of the starting lineup in midweek after scoring just three goals so far this season. Slot defended his selection decisions, emphasizing the depth and rotation required at an elite club.
“It’s not only about the new signings,” Slot said. “We have many good players. The best lineup depends on the opponent, the players’ form, and their connections on the pitch. Big clubs always have more than 11 players capable of starting.”
Slot, who oversaw significant squad changes during the summer, added that Salah — like others — is still adapting to new teammates and tactical dynamics. “Everyone needs to find new connections again,” he said. “That process takes time, and Mo is no exception. He’s a human being like all the others.”
Liverpool, currently seeking to regain consistency in the Premier League, face Brentford on Sunday before hosting a midweek fixture at Anfield. Isak’s availability could be crucial as Slot looks to build on Thursday’s encouraging performance and stabilize the club’s early-season form.
