Why Jeremie Frimpong was taken off just four minutes into the Qarabag clash as Arne Slot’s injury crisis deepens
Jeremie Frimpong’s night ended almost as soon as it began after he was forced off just four minutes into the match with a suspected injury.
The Dutch defender pulled up early in Liverpool’s Champions League meeting with Qarabag at Anfield while recovering to stop a counter-attack. Wataru Endo was introduced in his place, further weakening an already stretched back line for Arne Slot.
What injury did Frimpong suffer against Qarabag?
Frimpong appeared to clutch his groin as teammates gathered around him, prompting referee Ivan Kružliak to call on the medical staff. However, subsequent reports suggest the problem is more likely related to his hamstring, according to The Athletic’s James Pearce.
Frimpong’s worrying injury history
Injuries have continued to hamper Frimpong since arriving at Liverpool, with the 25-year-old having already missed 18 matches for club and country during his time at Anfield. Availability has been a recurring issue rather than a strength.
It is worth noting, though, that this is his first season in the Premier League following his summer switch from Bayer Leverkusen, meaning a period of physical adjustment was always likely.
Liverpool’s right-back crisis deepens
If Frimpong faces an extended spell on the sidelines, Liverpool are left alarmingly short at right-back. Conor Bradley has already been ruled out for the remainder of the 2025/26 campaign after suffering a serious knee injury against Arsenal.
Calvin Ramsay is technically fit but not eligible for the competition, while Joe Gomez could offer temporary cover if Frimpong’s injury proves to be minor.
Defensive options running thin
Liverpool’s defensive depth is now under severe strain. Virgil van Dijk, Andy Robertson, Ibrahima Konate and Milos Kerkez remain available, though Konate is currently on personal leave. Others, including Rhys Williams and Ramsay, are ineligible for Champions League action, while multiple long-term injuries have left Arne Slot with limited senior options at the back.
At present, Liverpool’s defensive resources are stretched to breaking point.
