Liverpool’s season has been plagued by a series of setbacks, and the latest update from manager Arne Slot has only added to the mounting concerns at Anfield. In a press conference ahead of Sunday’s Premier League clash with Fulham, Slot confirmed that star summer signing Florian Wirtz is a major doubt due to a hamstring issue, describing it as a “blow” to the team’s preparations.
The Reds have already been grappling with an injury crisis that has tested the squad’s depth to its limits. Big-money arrivals from the summer transfer window—Alexander Isak, Jeremie Frimpong, and Wirtz himself—have all spent significant time on the sidelines, disrupting the rhythm Slot has been trying to build in his first season at the helm. The defensive unit, in particular, has borne the brunt of the problems, with captain Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate forced to shoulder an enormous workload amid absences from key players like Joe Gomez and young prospect Giovanni Leoni.
Wirtz, the 22-year-old German sensation who joined from Bayer Leverkusen in a blockbuster deal, was substituted early in the second half during Liverpool’s recent victory over Leeds United. Slot revealed that the midfielder has only managed one training session this week, as he continues to feel discomfort in his hamstring. “Florian only trained once this week because two days after the game, he felt his hamstring still a bit,” Slot explained. While the injury is described as “light,” the Dutch manager stopped short of ruling Wirtz out entirely for the Fulham fixture, but his availability remains uncertain.
This news comes at a particularly inopportune time for Liverpool, who are pushing hard in the title race and cannot afford to drop points against mid-table sides like Fulham. Wirtz has been a creative force in midfield since his arrival, contributing goals and assists that have helped propel the team forward. His potential absence could force Slot to reshuffle his lineup, with Cody Gakpo recently returning to full fitness and offering an alternative option on the left flank.
On a more positive note, there is some light at the end of the tunnel for Liverpool’s beleaguered defense. Joe Gomez, who has been out since going down off the ball in the December 13 match against Brighton, is set to rejoin first-team training on Friday. “I expect Joe to train with us tomorrow,” Slot stated, providing a timely boost. However, it’s unclear whether the England international will be match-fit enough to feature against Fulham, with Slot cautious about rushing him back.
Gomez’s return would be a welcome relief, as the 28-year-old’s versatility across the backline has been sorely missed. With Van Dijk and Konate playing almost every minute, the risk of burnout or further injuries looms large. Youngster Leoni, at just 18, has shown promise but lacks the experience to fill the void consistently.
As Liverpool head to Craven Cottage this weekend, the focus will be on maintaining their momentum despite these challenges. Slot’s side has shown resilience in the face of adversity, but losing Wirtz—even temporarily—could prove costly. Fans will be hoping for a swift recovery for the German star, as the Reds aim to keep the pressure on their title rivals.
In the broader context, this injury headache underscores the fragility of Liverpool’s squad amid a grueling fixture schedule. Slot will need to manage his resources carefully to navigate the coming weeks, with European commitments and domestic cups adding to the strain. For now, all eyes are on Sunday’s clash, where Liverpool will look to overcome Fulham and put this latest “disaster” behind them.