Liverpool Faces New Injury Setback with Cody Gakpo During Lengthy International Break
Liverpool's injury worries deepened as Cody Gakpo left the pitch early in the Netherlands' 2-1 victory over Serbia, a troubling development amid an unusually long international break. He lasted just 17 minutes before exiting while clutching his lower right leg, a sign that immediately raised alarms for Liverpool fans and staff.
Gakpo had been a standout performer, contributing two goals and four assists across six games this season. His form made him one of Liverpool’s key attacking threats in the opening weeks under new manager Andoni Iraola, who values consistent player availability as he seeks to establish a rhythm with the squad. The timing of this injury couldn't be worse for the Reds.
Injury Assessment Pending
The Netherlands coach Xavi Hernández confirmed a scan was scheduled to assess Gakpo’s ankle. “It’s his ankle, that’s all I know,” Hernández said. “Tomorrow we will know more, but hopefully it’s not too serious.” This cautious statement leaves much uncertainty, with Liverpool's medical team set to evaluate the extent of the damage once Gakpo returns.
International Break Strains Players and Clubs
The longer international break this season is proving risky for clubs. Instead of the usual two matches, players are squeezed into four games over three weeks, increasing physical strain, travel, and chances of injury.
Gakpo is among several high-profile players sidelined or carrying injuries during this period. Bruno Fernandes missed Portugal’s game against Norway due to an existing issue, while teammate Patrick Dorgu left Denmark’s match early with an injury. Arsenal’s Kai Havertz and Sunderland’s Brian Brobbey also faced problems in the Netherlands-Germany draw. Sunderland defender Dan Ballard suffered a hamstring issue representing Northern Ireland. Across Europe, France’s Kylian Mbappe is out for at least two weeks following a knee injury, and Bayern Munich’s Jamal Musiala pulled out before Germany’s match due to a muscle problem.
Some Relief with Alexander Isak's Return
For Liverpool, there’s a small silver lining. Alexander Isak returned early from Sweden duty after a minor thigh complaint, having played a full match and scored in their 2-1 win over Romania. He will now be monitored carefully at Kirkby, ensuring he rests for the remainder of the break to avoid further problems.
Challenges for Liverpool and New Manager Iraola
This spate of injuries disrupts Liverpool's efforts to find consistency under Iraola. He needs training time with his forwards to build understanding and patterns, but the extended break and fitness doubts are throwing obstacles in his way.
Supporters are growing weary of the congested international schedule that seems to harm clubs more than help. If players are breaking down early in the season because four fixtures have been crammed into three weeks, then the balance of the calendar clearly needs reconsideration.
What Lies Ahead
Now, Liverpool waits anxiously for the results of Gakpo’s scan. Ideally, his ankle injury will be minor, Isak’s thigh issue will settle quickly, and the club’s medical team can manage the situation effectively. For a side adjusting to a new head coach and seeking a fresh start, this period is testing their squad depth and resilience.
