Liverpool's Alexander Isak Faces Extended Recovery After Ankle Surgery

Liverpool striker Alexander Isak is facing a lengthy recovery after undergoing surgery for a serious ankle injury, which includes a fibula fracture. This injury has left fans frustrated, especially given Isak's rocky start at the club since his record £125 million transfer from Newcastle. With limited attacking options available, manager Arne Slot may need to explore the January transfer window for reinforcements. As speculation grows around key players like Mohamed Salah, the situation at Anfield remains tense. Read on for more details about Isak's injury and its implications for Liverpool's season.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 23, 2025, 12:44 IST

Surgery Indicates Prolonged Absence

Liverpool's striker Alexander Isak is expected to be out of action for an extended period following surgery for a severe ankle injury that includes a fibula fracture. This situation has left fans of the Reds feeling frustrated and anxious about their £125 million acquisition.

Details of the Injury

Isak, who transferred to Liverpool from Newcastle in September for a record-breaking £125 million ($168 million), sustained the injury while scoring during Liverpool's 2-1 victory over Tottenham. He was tackled by Tottenham's Micky van de Ven and limped off the field immediately after celebrating his goal.

A statement from Liverpool confirmed the surgery took place on Monday: 'Alexander Isak successfully underwent surgery today for the injury he sustained on Saturday. The operation addressed an ankle injury that included a fibula fracture. His rehabilitation will continue at the AXA Training Centre, but no timeline for his return has been established.'

Challenging Start at Liverpool

This injury adds to a rocky beginning for Isak at Anfield. Since his transfer, he has scored only three goals in 16 matches. A dispute with Newcastle delayed his arrival, preventing him from having a proper pre-season and leaving him behind in fitness compared to his teammates. Earlier this season, he also dealt with a groin injury, further complicating his adjustment to the Premier League.

Fans have expressed their disappointment on social media, with many labeling the signing as a 'waste of money' due to Isak's ongoing injury issues and inconsistent performance.

Fan Reactions

Social media is rife with comments reflecting the fans' frustrations: 'What a wasted season and transfer,' one user tweeted. Another remarked, 'He made the worst decision of his life by leaving Newcastle for Liverpool.' Many are questioning whether the hefty price tag was justified, with some calling it the 'worst transfer of all time.'

Striker Options Dwindling for Liverpool

With Isak's injury, manager Arne Slot faces a shortage of attacking options. Mohamed Salah is currently participating in the Africa Cup of Nations, and Cody Gakpo is not expected to return from a muscle injury until the new year. The only senior forwards available are Hugo Ekitike, who has netted five goals in his last four matches, and the less-utilized Federico Chiesa.

Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher commented on Sky Sports, 'It's a significant setback because Liverpool was already one attacker short. It's unfortunate for Isak, as we were just beginning to see his true quality in a Liverpool jersey.'

Upcoming January Transfer Window

With Isak likely out for several months, Liverpool may need to bolster their attacking lineup in January. Bournemouth winger Antoine Semenyo has been mentioned as a potential target for Anfield. Carragher also suggested that Liverpool might reconsider the futures of some key players.

'I believe Mo Salah will remain at the club now. There's a strong possibility that Harvey Elliott will return from his loan at Aston Villa as well,' he stated.

Salah's potential move to Saudi Arabia had been a topic of speculation, especially after he expressed feeling sidelined by the club and manager Slot. His absence during the Champions League match against Inter Milan fueled these rumors, although he returned as a substitute against Brighton before heading to the Africa Cup of Nations.