Liverpool are set to receive a significant fitness boost as they prepare to resume Premier League action against Nottingham Forest, with Alisson Becker expected to return between the posts. Arne Slot’s side entered the international break on the back of a bruising 3–0 defeat to Manchester City, a result that leaves the reigning champions eight points behind league leaders Arsenal.
Despite the disappointment at the Etihad — where even Virgil van Dijk’s goal was controversially disallowed — Liverpool were able to welcome back Alexander Isak, who later featured for Sweden during the break. With key players returning and the squad edging towards full strength, Slot is hopeful of stabilising form as Forest visit Anfield this weekend.
Alisson Becker set for Forest return
Liverpool’s No. 1 has been sidelined since 30 September, when he limped off against Galatasaray in the Champions League with a muscle injury. Alisson has missed eight matches and two Brazil squads, leaving Giorgi Mamardashvili to deputise.
The Brazilian has now returned to full training and is expected to start against Nottingham Forest, providing a major boost to a defence that looked unsettled at the Etihad.
Potential return date: 22 November 2025 vs Nottingham Forest (H)
Jeremie Frimpong closing in on comeback
Jeremie Frimpong picked up a hamstring problem during Liverpool’s 5–1 win over Eintracht Frankfurt on 22 October, lasting only 19 minutes before being withdrawn. Early assessments suggested a six-week absence, and Slot confirmed before the Manchester City match that December remains the realistic target for his return.
Slot said:
“I expect Jeremie back after the international break… but I don’t expect him to be fully fit for Forest.”
The Dutch wing-back’s speed and attacking output have been missed, particularly against high-pressing sides, and Liverpool are hopeful he will be available for the busy festive period.
Potential return date: December 2025
Giovanni Leoni ruled out long term with ACL tear
Young centre-back Giovanni Leoni suffered a devastating knee injury on his Anfield debut against Southampton in the Carabao Cup. The 18-year-old landed awkwardly following a late challenge, requiring on-pitch treatment before being stretchered off. Scans later confirmed a torn ACL, ruling him out for around a year.
Slot spoke compassionately about Leoni’s situation:
“He tore his ACL which means that he will be out for around a year… Being so young, coming to a new country, playing so well in your first game — it’s very hard to take the positives.”
Liverpool see Leoni as a long-term project, and the club is expected to manage his recovery carefully throughout 2026.
Potential return date: Late 2026
Our view: Slot finally regaining control of his squad
In our view, Liverpool’s fitness situation is turning at the right moment. The return of Alisson cannot be understated — his presence, communication and shot-stopping elevate the entire back line. Frimpong’s imminent comeback also offers a major tactical lift, giving Slot the width and pace his system relies on.
The only dark cloud is Leoni’s long-term absence, which will require defensive depth to be rotated intelligently across multiple competitions. Still, if Liverpool can build rhythm through late November, the champions could quickly reinsert themselves into the title conversation.
Key Insights
- Alisson expected to start against Nottingham Forest after nearly two months out.
- Frimpong likely to return in early December after hamstring injury.
- Leoni facing a year-long recovery from ACL tear suffered on Anfield debut.
- Isak returned to action for Sweden, moving Liverpool closer to a clean bill of health.
- Slot aims to reset momentum after 3–0 defeat to Manchester City.
What’s next for Liverpool
Liverpool host Nottingham Forest on 22 November, followed by fixtures against Bournemouth and their final Champions League group match. With Alisson back and Frimpong nearing full fitness, Slot may finally have the platform needed to stabilise form heading into the winter schedule.
👉 Liverpool fans — how big of a difference will Alisson’s return make to the team’s confidence?
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