Liverpool head into a crucial Champions League fixture against Galatasaray with a mixed injury outlook after their recent FA Cup victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers.
While Arne Slot welcomed the return of Florian Wirtz during the 3-1 win at Molineux, concerns emerged late in the match when Alexis Mac Allister was forced off following a heavy challenge. With several players already unavailable, Liverpool’s medical staff are closely monitoring multiple fitness situations ahead of the trip to Istanbul.
Alexis Mac Allister fitness assessed after Wolves challenge
Alexis Mac Allister started Liverpool’s FA Cup win against Wolves but was substituted late in the match after a robust tackle from Hwang Hee-chan.
The Argentine midfielder appeared to jar his knee during the incident and received treatment before being replaced by Trey Nyoni. Although the substitution had already been planned, the challenge raised concerns among Liverpool supporters.
After the match, Arne Slot suggested the injury was not expected to be serious.
“I think so, yes.” — Arne Slot, when asked if Mac Allister was OK
Mac Allister was able to leave the pitch unaided, which is considered a positive sign ahead of the upcoming Champions League match.
Potential return date: 10 March vs Galatasaray (Champions League)
Alexander Isak targeting spring comeback
Liverpool’s record signing Alexander Isak has endured a frustrating first season on Merseyside after suffering a serious ankle injury in December.
The Swedish striker fractured his fibula during a challenge against Tottenham and has been sidelined for several months. His absence has forced Liverpool to adjust their attacking options during a demanding period of the campaign.
Slot recently explained that Isak’s return will likely occur around the end of March or early April.
“It will be around that period of time, end of March or start of April, when he is hopefully back with the group.”
Even once he returns to training, the striker may need additional time to regain full match sharpness.
Potential return date: Late March or early April
Wataru Endo faces lengthy rehabilitation
Midfielder Wataru Endo is expected to be unavailable for several months following a serious foot injury sustained against Sunderland in February.
The Japan international required surgery after being stretchered off during that match. Liverpool have not confirmed an exact recovery timeline, though the injury is expected to rule him out for a significant period.
Japan manager Hajime Moriyasu indicated the focus is now on ensuring Endo returns fully fit.
“The plan is for him to be ready in time for the World Cup, and the rehabilitation process is being considered carefully.”
Potential return date: June 2026
Defensive injuries affecting Liverpool squad depth
Liverpool have also been dealing with defensive absences following injuries to Conor Bradley and Giovanni Leoni earlier in the season.
Bradley suffered a significant knee injury during a Premier League draw with Arsenal in January. While the damage was serious, he avoided a full ACL rupture.
Leoni, meanwhile, tore his ACL during his Liverpool debut in the Carabao Cup earlier in the campaign and is expected to remain out until next season.
| Liverpool Injury Status | Return Estimate |
|---|---|
| Alexis Mac Allister | Possible vs Galatasaray |
| Alexander Isak | Late March / Early April |
| Wataru Endo | June 2026 |
| Conor Bradley | Summer 2026 |
| Giovanni Leoni | September 2026 |
source: injury updates – 9 March 2026
Key Insights
- Alexis Mac Allister was substituted after a late tackle in the FA Cup win against Wolves.
- Arne Slot believes the midfielder should recover quickly.
- Alexander Isak is targeting a return around late March or early April.
- Wataru Endo faces a long recovery after foot surgery.
- Liverpool are also without Conor Bradley and Giovanni Leoni due to long-term injuries.
What’s Next
Liverpool travel to Istanbul to face Galatasaray in the Champions League on 10 March. Slot is expected to provide further updates on Mac Allister’s fitness during his pre-match press conference.
The Reds remain active across multiple competitions, meaning squad management and player availability will remain key factors during the final stretch of the season.
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