Liverpool suffered a significant setback in the Premier League as Alexander Isak underwent surgery for a fractured fibula and is set to be sidelined for “a couple of months,” according to head coach Arne Slot. The injury occurred following a challenge by Micky Van de Ven during the clash against Tottenham, an incident Slot did not hesitate to describe as dangerous and avoidable.

Isak Out for Months, With an Uncertain Outlook

While the club’s initial medical update did not specify a return date, Slot provided clarity in his press conference: the best-case scenario points to roughly two months out, though he warned the absence could extend longer. Isak was operated on Monday after sustaining the fracture in a particularly bitter moment—the injury came in the very same move in which he scored Liverpool’s opening goal in London.

The striker’s absence forces Liverpool to rethink their attacking plans during a demanding stretch of fixtures. Slot avoided discussing transfer-market solutions and instead urged full focus on the immediate schedule, stressing that available players must “give everything” to keep the team competitive.

The Controversial Challenge and Slot’s Stance

When breaking down the incident, Arne Slot was unequivocal. He branded Van de Ven’s tackle as “reckless,” drawing a clear distinction from other recent challenges. “If you make that kind of challenge ten times, there’s a strong chance of a serious injury,” the manager explained, emphasizing the inherent risk in the defender’s approach.

The comments were not aimed at sparking disciplinary debate, but rather at highlighting player safety and responsibility. In a league as intense as the Premier League, Slot underlined, split-second decisions can have severe consequences.

Injury List Grows Ahead of Key Matches

The medical concerns extend beyond Isak. Slot confirmed that Conor Bradley has a “50 percent chance” of being fit for the weekend clash against Wolves. Cody Gakpo remains a doubt, while Wataru Endo and Joe Gomez are ruled out.

Asked about a potential January move for Antoine Semenyo of Bournemouth, Slot brushed aside speculation, reiterating his focus on the next two tough fixtures—against Wolves and Leeds. He also clarified that Harvey Elliott is an Aston Villa player on loan under Unai Emery, ruling out any immediate return.

With Isak beginning his recovery and a congested calendar ahead, Liverpool face pivotal weeks. Arne Slot has made his position clear: protect players, compete with the resources at hand, and take it one match at a time while the Swedish forward works toward a full comeback.