Liverpool ended a four-game losing streak with a commanding 5-1 triumph over Eintracht Frankfurt in the Champions League, but the victory came at a cost as star striker Alexander Isak sustained a groin injury during the match. Manager Arne Slot confirmed the issue, revealing that Isak was substituted at halftime after feeling discomfort in the area. The 26-year-old, who joined the Reds from Newcastle for a reported £125 million this summer, has faced questions about his form following a slow start to the season, scoring only in the Carabao Cup for his new club.
Slot emphasized the challenges of reintegrating a player returning from a three-month absence, stating, "It’s a difficult balance to find. We’ve been careful with him, and he was fit when he came back from the national team, but injuries are part of the game." He highlighted the team’s focus on creating chances, noting that the win was a crucial step forward after previous setbacks. "We needed a performance that translated into results, and today it did," Slot added.
Hugo Ekitike, who started alongside Isak, acknowledged the early struggles but expressed optimism about their partnership. "It wasn’t our best half together, but we can improve," Ekitike said. The French forward, who scored against his former Bundesliga club Frankfurt, reflected on his journey: "Frankfurt made me the player I am today. I’m grateful for their role in my development." His goal marked a personal milestone, as he celebrated his first Champions League strike for Liverpool.
Meanwhile, right-back Jeremie Frimpong’s season has been disrupted by a hamstring injury, ruling him out for "a few weeks" and prompting his substitution in the first half. Slot also pointed to tactical adjustments as a key factor in the win, noting that Liverpool’s two set-piece goals contrasted with earlier losses where opponents capitalized on similar opportunities. "When you’re 3-1 up, the game feels different," he remarked, though he acknowledged the need for consistency in performance.
Defender Virgil van Dijk, who scored Liverpool’s second goal, downplayed the result as a "statement" but emphasized its importance. "It’s about getting the win and building momentum," he said, as the Reds look to recover from a turbulent start to the campaign. With Isak’s injury adding to the squad’s challenges, Slot’s comments underscore the delicate task of managing player workload while maintaining competitive edge in a demanding schedule.
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