Image source: Liverpool fc
Liverpool supporters have had plenty to celebrate over the last few days, but there is also a fair bit to keep an eye on as the club navigates a packed winter schedule. With key players missing through injury, recovering at different speeds, and a couple of important names walking a suspension tightrope, the next stretch of fixtures will test both squad depth and patience.
Chiesa’s Absence and the Hope for a Quick Recovery
Federico Chiesa’s name on the injury list caused a ripple of worry among fans, especially because he has been settling into life at Liverpool with real energy. His absence in the Champions League win at the San Siro on December 9 came down to illness rather than a physical injury. That is, at least, the good news.
Illness can be unpredictable, but it usually means a short turnaround. Chiesa’s availability for upcoming fixtures will depend on how quickly he regains full strength. Liverpool will want him back as soon as possible because of his ability to carry the ball at pace, create pressure high up the pitch, and turn half chances into dangerous moments. In a congested fixture list, having a winger with his direct style is a luxury the team does not want to miss for long.
Frimpong’s Slow but Encouraging Progress
Jeremie Frimpong’s injury has been a tougher blow. He was forced off early in the Champions League win over Eintracht Frankfurt in October, and his absence has been felt in both Europe and the league. His pace and attacking movement on the right flank offer Liverpool something that very few fullbacks can replicate.
Arne Slot gave a small but positive update on December 2, saying he expected Frimpong to return to training the following week. That signals that he is moving in the right direction, although players coming back from a muscle issue usually need time to ease into full intensity. Even once he returns to training, it may be another week or two before he is fully available for selection.
Still, the thought of Frimpong resuming his role gives Liverpool fans something to look forward to. His chemistry with the forwards and his constant overlaps add a different dimension to the attack.
Gakpo’s Setback at the Wrong Moment
Cody Gakpo’s injury came at a frustrating time for both the player and the team. He picked up the issue in the last match against Leeds, ruling him out of the victory over Inter Milan on December 9.
Arne Slot’s update on December 8 was straightforward. Gakpo will be out for a few weeks. That is not ideal, especially since he had been finding decent rhythm in recent matches. Gakpo’s versatility has always been one of his biggest strengths. He can play centrally, drift wide, or drop into midfield pockets to link play.
Without him, Liverpool lose a forward who understands space well and offers a calm presence in big moments. The hope is that his recovery stays within the expected timeline. A return in the new year seems realistic.
Giovanni Leoni’s Long Road Ahead
Giovanni Leoni’s situation is the most painful on the list. The young defender tore his ACL during the final moments of his debut in the Carabao Cup against Southampton. The timing was both unfortunate and heartbreaking, especially because he had performed so well up to that point.
Slot spoke openly about the severity of the injury back on September 26. Leoni will be out for a full year, which is standard for ACL recovery. Slot also acknowledged how hard it is for a young player in a new country to face such a setback so early in his career.
Even though the road is long, there is genuine hope for Leoni. He is still very young and has many seasons ahead of him. Recovering from an ACL tear is difficult, but with modern rehab and strong support from the club, he has every chance to return even stronger.
Suspension Alert: Bradley Out, Others on the Edge
Injuries are only part of the challenge. Suspensions also play a role in shaping the squad’s availability, and Liverpool are dealing with a few concerns here as well.
Conor Bradley Out Against Brighton
Conor Bradley has become an important squad member, and missing him for the December 13 match against Brighton is a blow. He picked up his fifth Premier League yellow card of the season in the draw at Leeds, triggering an automatic one match ban.
Bradley adds energy, work rate, and defensive discipline to the right side. His absence means Slot will need to adjust the lineup, especially with Frimpong not quite ready to return.
Bradley is also one yellow card away from suspension in the Champions League, which adds another layer of caution for the coaching staff when planning rotations.
Szoboszlai Walking a Fine Line
Dominik Szoboszlai is another player who must tread carefully. With one more booking, he will receive a one match Premier League suspension. Given how central he has been to Liverpool’s midfield structure, losing him even briefly would be a setback.
Szoboszlai plays with intensity and ambition, which naturally leads to aggressive duels. Slot will need to trust his judgment, but also manage his minutes wisely depending on the match scenario.
What These Absences Mean for Liverpool’s Next Stretch of Games
The injuries and suspensions create gaps, but they also open chances for other players to step up. One thing that has remained consistent under Slot is the squad’s adaptability. Liverpool have managed to maintain results even with key players missing, which speaks to strong training ground work and tactical clarity.
Still, the next few fixtures will demand careful rotation. The absence of attacking depth with both Chiesa and Gakpo missing puts more pressure on Mohamed Salah, Darwin Nunez, and Luis Diaz. The defensive side also feels light with Frimpong not quite fit and Bradley unavailable for the next league match. Midfield remains the area with the most stability, although Szoboszlai’s card situation means Slot may need to make smart decisions about when to play him and for how long.
Final Thoughts
Liverpool’s current injury and suspension picture is a mix of short term frustration and long term challenges. Chiesa and Gakpo should return soon, which will give the attack a big lift. Frimpong’s recovery is moving forward, which is encouraging. Leoni’s journey will take time, but the club is behind him. Suspensions add another wrinkle, especially for Bradley and Szoboszlai.
What matters most now is keeping momentum. The squad has already shown it can handle adversity, and with a tough run of fixtures ahead, every recovered player will feel like a fresh boost.
If Liverpool can navigate this period with discipline and a bit of good fortune, they will enter the next phase of the season stronger and more connected than ever.
Find the Latest News on Player Ratings | Transfers | Prematch | Postmatch
Thank you for your continued support, and let’s cheer Liverpool on to success in the upcoming match. Your thoughts are always welcome in the comments section. For further insights, you may explore the official Liverpool FC website by clicking here.
YNWA (You’ll Never Walk Alone)!
The Liverpool FC Times Team
LiverpoolFCTimes.com