Liverpool’s injury list may finally be starting to shorten as Liverpool prepare for the New Year, but Arne Slot is still juggling several key absences heading into the festive run-in.
The Reds closed out 2025 with a hard-earned 2-1 Premier League victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers at Anfield, welcoming back a number of first-team players in the process. However, concerns remain over several senior figures, most notably Alexander Isak, whose season has been severely disrupted by injury.
With Arne Slot’s side set to face Leeds United on New Year’s Day, here is the latest Liverpool injury update, including expected return dates.
Hugo Ekitike – fitness being monitored
There was brief concern late in the win over Wolves when Hugo Ekitike appeared to be moving gingerly before being substituted in the closing stages. No injury was reported immediately after the match, and Slot offered no indication that the Frenchman was dealing with anything serious.
Given the congested festive schedule, fatigue or cramp appears the most likely explanation. With Liverpool already short in attack — particularly with Mohamed Salah away at AFCON and Isak sidelined — Ekitike is expected to be handled carefully.
Potential return date: Wednesday, 1 January vs Leeds (H)
Alexander Isak – long road back
Isak remains Liverpool’s biggest concern. The striker suffered a serious ankle injury, including a fractured fibula, after appearing as a substitute against Tottenham Hotspur before Christmas.
The 25-year-old has since undergone surgery, with the club deliberately avoiding setting a firm timetable for his return. Slot has expressed confidence that Isak could still feature late in the campaign, but the reality is that he faces several months on the sidelines.
Potential return date: Late in the 2025/26 season
Joe Gomez – update awaited
Joe Gomez was forced off inside half an hour of Liverpool’s win over Brighton & Hove Albion on 13 December, going down off the ball before requiring treatment.
Slot confirmed that Gomez would miss the Wolves match, but has yet to clarify the nature or severity of the injury. His recent history suggests Liverpool will proceed cautiously.
Potential return date: Unknown
Wataru Endo – weeks rather than days
Depth in midfield has also been affected by the absence of Wataru Endo. Slot confirmed earlier this month that the Japan international is dealing with an ankle issue and would be sidelined for “weeks”.
Endo was again absent from the squad against Wolves, and while he has not been a regular starter, his versatility would have been valuable during this spell.
Potential return date: January 2026
Giovanni Leoni – season-ending setback
Young centre-back Giovanni Leoni remains a long-term absentee after suffering an ACL injury on his Liverpool debut in the Carabao Cup against Southampton.
Slot has spoken openly about the emotional toll of the injury, confirming Leoni is expected to miss the entire season as he begins a lengthy rehabilitation.
Potential return date: Autumn 2026
Key insights
- Liverpool have welcomed several attackers back but remain light up front
- Alexander Isak’s injury significantly impacts long-term planning
- Defensive depth is tested with Gomez and Leoni unavailable
- Squad rotation will be crucial during the New Year period
What’s next for Liverpool?
Liverpool host Leeds United on Wednesday, 1 January, with Slot expected to rotate where possible while carefully managing player workloads. Ekitike’s availability will be closely monitored, while the midfield balance may again be adjusted in Endo’s absence. However, it remains too early to draw firm conclusions about how quickly Liverpool’s injury situation will improve.
Can Liverpool maintain momentum if Isak misses the rest of the season?
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