Slot provides an update on Frimpong’s injury following Liverpool’s victory over Qarabag
Liverpool’s Champions League victory over Qarabag was slightly dampened by an early injury setback for Jeremie Frimpong.
The Dutch wing-back was forced off just two minutes into the contest at Anfield after pulling up during a sprint, sparking immediate concern given how serious it appeared at the time.
However, Arne Slot’s post-match comments offered some reassurance that the issue may not be as severe as initially feared.
Speaking to Liverpoolfc.com after the final whistle, Slot confirmed the problem was muscular, saying: “It’s a muscle injury, but I don’t know how long that is going to be.”
A muscle issue typically suggests a shorter layoff rather than anything season-threatening. Slot also moved to ease concerns by confirming it was not related to Frimpong’s knee.
“It’s a muscle so it’s not a knee [injury], and a muscle usually has to do with overloading a player,” he explained, helping to calm fears of a major setback.
Slot’s Frimpong update offers cautious optimism
Slot went on to highlight why he was already managing workloads, pointing to his decision to withdraw Hugo Ekitike and Florian Wirtz later in the game for similar reasons.
“That’s why I took Hugo and Florian off tonight as well, because those are the players that are not as used as Macca or Dom [Szoboszlai],” he said.
This suggests Frimpong’s issue was load-related rather than caused by a direct impact.
Still, the concern is understandable given Frimpong’s recent injury history since arriving at the club, which has been far from ideal. That context makes even a minor muscle problem feel more significant.
Liverpool have already had to manage his absences this season, which explains why Slot struck a careful, measured tone rather than sounding overly optimistic.
What it means for Liverpool’s next game
Liverpool return to Premier League action against Newcastle United on Saturday, and Slot also provided updates on other fitness matters.
Curtis Jones was unwell, Joe Gomez remains a doubt, while there is hope Ibrahima Konaté could return.
Frimpong, however, remains the biggest question mark. Slot did hint that a lengthy absence is not being assumed.
“Let’s first see how Jeremie [Frimpong] is. Maybe he’s not able to play Saturday but maybe he’s able to play one or two days later,” he said.
That comment is telling, as it frames the problem in terms of days rather than weeks, at least at this stage.
The broader concern is the impact on Liverpool’s right side if Frimpong does miss time, especially with Conor Bradley already sidelined and options limited.
This is why Slot has spoken about balancing immediate demands with longer-term squad management. There has also been external speculation, including comments from Fabrizio Romano, about whether Liverpool could explore emergency cover should the injury prove more serious.
For now, though, the manager’s message is clear: caution, not panic.
