Arne Slot issues worrying injury update as busy festive schedule approaches

It seems every international break brings fresh problems, but few would have predicted the scale of the latest setback Arne Slot confirmed.

Addressing the media, the Dutchman revealed that both Conor Bradley and Florian Wirtz “can’t play” against Nottingham Forest, calling the situation “far from ideal” as Liverpool prepare for a packed run of fixtures.

Liverpool hit with double blow as Wirtz and Bradley sidelined

Wirtz’s absence is another frustration during a period in which his adjustment to English football has already drawn scrutiny in Germany. Only days ago, Sport Bild questioned his “quiet start”, partly attributing it to the attacking structure and even claiming Mo Salah had “overlooked” him at times.

Slot added that the 22-year-old’s muscle problem “maybe should not be that long”, but losing a player of his creativity is a major setback when chances have already been hard to come by.

Bradley’s situation is significantly worse. The Northern Ireland youngster could miss “up to 22 days” unless “a miracle happens”, according to Slot.

Positional reshuffles likely as Liverpool face heavy schedule

With Jeremie Frimpong also out, Slot admitted that “one or two players might have to play in positions they usually don’t”, hinting at further tactical adjustments. Bradley’s injury followed recent debate about his positional versatility, after he was used as the “furthest forward white shirt” for his country this week.

Now, Liverpool may need to repurpose another player at right-back. Joe Gomez was specifically mentioned, though concerns remain as he has completed “two times 90 minutes in 2025”.

The injury list leaves Liverpool with minimal room for error over the next three weeks. After the defeat to Manchester City exposed the need for dependable options, losing two more key contributors only heightens the pressure.

There was some relief, with Alisson returning to full training and Andy Robertson rejoining the squad. Still, the contrast between those positives and the losses of Bradley and Wirtz shows how quickly circumstances can shift.

As Slot concluded, “we do have some issues after the international break”, and with tactical tweaks now inevitable, the upcoming fixtures may reveal more about Liverpool’s adaptability than any earlier success this season.