Liverpool suffer a defensive setback as Jeremie Frimpong picks up a muscle injury in their dominant Champions League win.
Arne Slot confirmed that Jeremie Frimpong will face a spell on the sidelines after picking up a muscle injury during Liverpool’s 6-0 Champions League win over Qarabag. The right-back limped off just minutes into the game at Anfield on Wednesday. This development leaves the Reds with no options at the back.
Frimpong’s absence comes at a difficult time for Liverpool, who sit sixth in the Premier League with 36 points from 23 games. The team is defending last season’s title, but has been plagued by injuries. Maintaining momentum is crucial as they look to climb the table.
The 25-year-old Netherlands international joined Liverpool from Bayer Leverkusen for £29m in the summer. He has played 19 games this season, scoring two goals and providing one assist. His dynamic play has been key in offensive transitions from the Reds’ defence.
Slot addressed the injury after the game, noting that it stems from overloading the players. The coach remains cautious about the timetable for Frimpong’s return.
“It’s a muscle injury, but I don’t know how long it’s going to last,” Slot said. “It’s a muscle, so it’s not a knee injury and a muscle usually has to do with overloading a player.”
Conor Bradley is out for the season with a knee injury, while Joe Gomez is doubtful for the next few games. Ibrahima Konate returns from compassionate leave, offering some relief. Curtis Jones is also back from illness.
Liverpool will not rush into the January transfer market despite the crisis. Slot emphasized making smart long-term decisions rather than short-term fixes.
“We as a club always make decisions that we at least think are smart decisions,” Slot explained. “We don’t just look at the short term, we look at the long term.”
The Reds host Newcastle United on Saturday before facing Manchester City on February 8. These matches will test the depth of their depleted squad. Sunderland await February 11 in the league.
