Arne Slot Confronts Dual Injury Worries as Liverpool Await Key Player Updates Post-Galatasaray

Arne Slot Faces Double Injury Blow as Liverpool’s Struggles Deepen
By Will Griffee | Updated: 22:42 BST, 30 September 2025

Liverpool’s dismal 1-0 defeat to Galatasaray in the Champions League was overshadowed by injuries to goalkeeper Alisson and forward Hugo Ekitike, leaving manager Arne Slot with mounting concerns ahead of a critical clash against Chelsea.

The Reds, already reeling from a weekend Premier League loss to Crystal Palace, suffered further setbacks when Alisson and Ekitike hobbled off during the second half in Istanbul. Alisson sustained a suspected shoulder injury after heroically denying Victor Osimhen in a one-on-one, while Ekitike clutched his hamstring minutes later. Both players are now doubts for Saturday’s trip to Stamford Bridge.

[Image: Alisson making a save against Osimhen]
Alisson injured his shoulder during a crucial stop against Galatasaray.

Alisson’s Painful Exit
The Brazilian goalkeeper immediately signaled for medical help after saving Osimhen’s effort, which came following a costly error by defender Ibrahima Konaté. Slot confirmed post-match that Alisson “felt something” while sprinting to challenge the striker and ruled him out of the Chelsea game. Backup goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili replaced him, but the absence of Liverpool’s first-choice shot-stopper adds to their defensive woes.

Ekitike’s Hamstring Scare
Moments later, Ekitike stretched to reach a loose ball and collapsed, gripping his hamstring. The Frenchman, who joined Liverpool on loan from PSG this summer, walked off but faces a fitness race. Slot admitted, “He said he couldn’t continue. We’ll assess him closer to the weekend.”

[Image: Ekitike clutching his hamstring]
Ekitike’s injury compounds Liverpool’s growing crisis.

Liverpool’s Growing Concerns
The injuries cap a turbulent week for the reigning Premier League champions, who have lost back-to-back matches for only the second time under Slot. Despite introducing substitutes Mohamed Salah and Alexander Isak, Liverpool created few chances against a resolute Galatasaray side fueled by a raucous home crowd.

Slot’s squad faces broader issues:

• Konaté’s Form: The defender’s erratic performances are raising alarms.
• Midfield Imbalance: New signing Florian Wirtz has yet to register a goal or assist, exacerbating creativity issues.
• Attacking Struggles: Despite depth in attack, Liverpool have scored just once in their last three matches.

Upcoming Chelsea Test
With Alisson and Ekitike likely sidelined, Slot must rely on squad depth. Mamardashvili will deputize in goal, while Diogo Jota or Cody Gakpo could replace Ekitike. However, Liverpool’s shaky defense and misfiring midfield remain unresolved.

Slot’s side sits fifth in the Premier League, eight points behind leaders Arsenal. A defeat at Chelsea could further dent their title defense hopes, ramping up pressure ahead of the October international break.

Fan Reaction
Supporters expressed frustration online, with many questioning Slot’s tactics and the team’s recruitment. “Konaté’s mistake cost us Alisson. This is unsustainable,” tweeted one fan. Others criticized Wirtz’s slow adaptation to English football.

[Image: Liverpool fans in Istanbul]
Faces in the crowd reflected Liverpool’s night of disappointment.

Looking Ahead
Liverpool’s medical staff will work urgently to assess Alisson and Ekitike, but Slot faces tough decisions to revive their season. The Dutchman, once lauded for his pragmatic approach, must now prove his ability to navigate a crisis.

As the fixtures pile up, Liverpool’s depth and resilience face their toughest test yet.

Word count: 620