Liverpool Lose Isak and Gakpo Ahead of Manchester City Clash

Liverpool will be without strikers Alexander Isak and winger Cody Gakpo when they face Manchester City at Anfield in the 2026-27 Premier League campaign. Manager Andoni Iraola confirmed the two attacking players are unavailable because of injuries, while defender Jérémy Jacquet has recovered sufficiently to be considered for the match.

The injury updates come as Liverpool prepare to face the league leaders, who have won all five of their opening matches. According to the source report from USA Today, Liverpool have started the season unbeaten but recorded only two victories alongside three draws.

Manchester City's perfect league record places them at the top of the standings as they pursue their first Premier League title since the 2023-24 season. Liverpool, meanwhile, must prepare for the fixture without two players who suffered injuries during the international break.

Speaking at a news conference on Friday, Iraola confirmed that neither forward would be ready to participate against City.

"Alex Isak and Cody Gakpo will not play the game. They are not ready," said Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola.

Isak sustained a thigh injury, while Gakpo has an ankle problem. Both injuries emerged during the international break, leaving Liverpool without the two attacking options for the meeting with the league leaders.

There was more encouraging news concerning Jacquet, whose availability gives Liverpool another defensive option. The defender had been dealing with a hamstring injury sustained while representing France, but he is now fit for selection.

Iraola confirmed the defender's recovery and indicated that his absence from France's most recent match had been a precautionary measure.

"Yeah, he's fit, he's ready to go," said Iraola. "I think he didn't play with the national team [in the] last game because of protection."

Jacquet's return contrasts with the setbacks affecting Liverpool's attack ahead of a demanding test against a Manchester City side that has won every league match it has played this season. Liverpool's unbeaten start provides a positive result record, but the team enters the fixture with two fewer attacking options available.