- Alexander Isak underwent successful surgery on December 22, 2025, for an ankle injury including a fibula fracture in his left leg.
- The Swedish striker, Liverpool’s £125m record signing, is expected to miss several months, though no exact return timeline has been set.
- Isak sustained the injury while scoring Liverpool’s opener in a 2-1 Premier League win over Tottenham on December 20, 2025.
- This setback compounds a challenging start at Anfield, marked by fitness issues since his deadline-day transfer from Newcastle.
The Injury Incident and Immediate Aftermath
Alexander Isak’s promising moment turned tragic during Liverpool’s victory at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Introduced as a halftime substitute, the 26-year-old brilliantly finished from Florian Wirtz’s pass in the 56th minute—his second Premier League goal for the club.
As he struck the ball, Tottenham defender Micky van de Ven’s sliding challenge caught Isak awkwardly, twisting his left ankle. Unable to celebrate, Isak signaled immediately for medical help and was helped off in visible pain.
Arne Slot noted post-match that such signals rarely bode well. MRI scans confirmed fears of a significant issue, leading to surgery the following day.
Impact on Liverpool’s Season
Isak’s absence creates a major void in Liverpool’s attack. With Mohamed Salah at the Africa Cup of Nations—where he scored in Egypt’s opener—and Cody Gakpo recovering from injury, options thin.
Hugo Ekitike, another summer arrival, steps up prominently. The 23-year-old Frenchman has impressed with 11 goals this season, including the winner against nine-man Tottenham. Federico Chiesa and young Rio Ngumoha provide depth but limited starts.
Slot’s side faces a demanding schedule, testing squad resilience. The injury disrupts emerging partnerships, like Isak’s link-up with Wirtz.
| Liverpool’s Key Absentees (December 2025) |
|---|
| Alexander Isak: Fibula fracture (months) |
| Mohamed Salah: Africa Cup of Nations |
| Cody Gakpo: Muscle injury (returning soon) |
| Potential January Targets: Versatile forwards |
Alexander Isak’s injury casts a shadow over Liverpool’s promising form. The £125m British record signing from Newcastle in September 2025 arrived amid high expectations but faced immediate hurdles.
A disrupted pre-season—training alone at former club Real Sociedad after missing Newcastle’s tour—delayed fitness. A groin issue in October sidelined him further, limiting contributions to three goals in 16 appearances.
His Tottenham strike hinted at breakthrough: sharp movement and clinical finish showcased potential. Yet the Van de Ven challenge—unpunished despite debate—halted momentum.
Liverpool confirmed successful surgery on an ankle injury with fibula fracture. Rehabilitation begins at the AXA Training Centre, with recovery likely spanning months. Fibula breaks typically require 3-6 months, depending on complications.
Slot remains pragmatic, praising Ekitike’s adaptation. The Frenchman’s recent form—multiple goals in key games—offers reassurance. Gakpo’s imminent return adds options.
Salah’s AFCON commitment stretches resources, but his contract situation looms larger long-term. Liverpool eye January reinforcements, with Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo—a versatile £65m-release winger—linked amid interest from rivals.
Slot cautioned against unlimited spending despite summer outlay exceeding £415m (offset by sales). Targeted additions could address depth without panic.
| Isak’s Liverpool Stats (as of December 2025) |
|---|
| Appearances: 16 |
| Goals: 3 |
| Assists: Limited due to fitness |
| Previous Issues: Groin (October) |
This blow tests Liverpool’s title credentials. Ekitike’s emergence and youth integration provide hope, while Isak’s recovery motivates quietly.
Van de Ven’s challenge sparked refereeing debate, but focus shifts to support for the Swede. Liverpool navigate challenges, blending caution with ambition.
