Liverpool secured an important 2-1 win against Tottenham in North London this weekend, but their victory was overshadowed by a serious injury to scorer Alexander Isak.
The Sweden international, who joined Anfield for a staggering £125 million in the summer, scored Liverpool’s opening goal in the 56th minute.
But this goal came at a heavy price. Following a tough challenge from Micky van de Ven, Isak was seen clutching his lower leg in pain and had to be assisted off the pitch by medical staff.
With the attacking options at Arne Slott’s disposal already maxed out, this move could fundamentally change the trajectory of Liverpool’s season and open the door for a forgotten star to finally return to the spotlight.
Alexander Isaac to be sidelined for several months
The Athletic’s David Ornstein acknowledged the seriousness of the situation. Ornstein provided an alarming injury update for X.
“Alexander Isak has been ruled out for a period of time after sustaining a suspected fracture in his leg during a challenge in Liverpool’s win over Spurs. #LFC are yet to comment on the severity, but scans are poised to confirm a suspected left-sided fracture. Recovery will typically take several months.”
The club are officially awaiting final scan results, but the term “suspected foot fracture” suggests Isak won’t return until the spring of 2026.
The timing of his second Premier League goal at the exact moment he scored his second goal in the Premier League is nothing short of cruel for a player who is just beginning to find his footing at Anfield.
Isaac’s injury presents an opportunity for Federico Chiesa
This update has made Liverpool’s crisis even worse. Arne Slott is currently weathering the perfect storm of being sidelined up front.
- Mohamed Salah: Currently on international duty in Egypt for AFCON.
- Kodi Gakpo: Was sidelined with a muscle injury until at least early January.
- Alexander Isaac: Facing a months-long layoff due to a broken foot.
With Hugo Ekitike being the only other recognized senior striker, the slot has reached a point where Federico Chiesa cannot be left on the bench.
Despite being voted Player of the Month for September by fans, the Italian winger has been used primarily as an ‘impact sub’ throughout the 2025/26 season.
Chiesa has always delivered when called upon, particularly in the Carabao Cup win over Southampton, where he provided two assists and scored the decisive goal against Crystal Palace, but he remains unable to secure a consistent starting place.
Now, with slot options thin, the manager will likely end up turning to Chiesa to fill the hole in the side.
It’s time for Chiesa to prove Slott wrong
Federico Chiesa’s 2025/26 season was a masterclass in professional patience. While many players would have been frustrated by the lack of starting appearances, Chiesa let his football speak for itself.
Fans have been vocal about his infectious energy and clutch ability, often questioning why Slot prioritized other options when Chiesa appears to be the most dangerous player on the pitch.
Isak’s injury, while tragic, could be the ultimate moment for the former Juventus man.
If Chiesa can translate the impact of his substitution into his starting performance, it could give Slott something to think about.
