Arne Slot provides worrying injury update on Liverpool duo after Frankfurt victory | OneFootball

Slot’s Tactical Tweaks Deliver Result

It was a night where Liverpool rediscovered their sharpness and control. Falling behind to Rasmus Kristensen’s 26th-minute strike, the visitors responded with authority. Hugo Ekitike’s equaliser against his former side set the tone before Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté turned two set-pieces into goals, swinging the match decisively in Liverpool’s favour by half-time.

Slot highlighted how the side’s set-piece execution had been a decisive factor. He noted that while the team’s recent performances were not dissimilar in terms of creating chances, capitalising on dead-ball opportunities made all the difference. “When you score from those moments, people judge you very differently,” Slot reflected.

The Dutch manager also praised his side’s pressing intensity against Frankfurt, explaining how a ground-based opponent allowed Liverpool to regain their rhythm. “We could finally press them properly – the ball was on the ground rather than in the air,” he said.

Isak’s Injury Frustration

Isak’s evening was cut short by a groin problem, reigniting the conversation about his fitness management since joining the club. Slot acknowledged the fine balance Liverpool have tried to maintain since his late arrival and lack of pre-season preparation.

“He didn’t come back injured from international duty,” Slot confirmed. “We’ve been building him up carefully, moving from one game a week to two, and he looked perfectly fit before tonight. Unfortunately, he felt something in his groin again.”

The forward’s start to life at Anfield has been promising yet stop-start. Slot admitted the situation is frustrating but insisted Liverpool would not have risked Isak had there been any warning signs. “If he was in the red zone, he wouldn’t have played,” he stated. “The margins at this level are small, and sometimes these setbacks happen despite careful planning.”

Frimpong’s Hamstring Setback

For Frimpong, it was another early blow. The right-back was forced off within the first quarter-hour, clutching his hamstring – the same area that had sidelined him earlier in the season. Slot confirmed it was likely a recurrence, adding: “Jeremie came back from his previous hamstring issue, played for his national team, and unfortunately had to go off again today. We’ll have to assess how serious it is.”

The Dutch defender’s energy and width have been integral to Slot’s system, and his absence could leave a significant void if the scan results bring bad news.

Jubel der Gäste nach dem Tor zum 1-5 durch Dominik Szoboszlai FC Liverpool, 8 UEFA Champions League, 3. Spieltag: Eintracht Frankfurt – FC Liverpool am 22.10.25 in Deutsche Bank Park, Frankfurt Frankfurt Deutsche Bank Park Frankfurt Deutschland *** Cheers from the visitors after Dominik Szoboszlais goal to make it 1 5 Liverpool FC, 8 UEFA Champions League, Matchday 3 Eintracht Frankfurt FC Liverpool on 22 10 25 at Deutsche Bank Park, Frankfurt Frankfurt Deutsche Bank Park Frankfurt Germany Copyright: xAlfioxMarinox

Ekitike and Szoboszlai Among Positives

While injuries clouded the evening, there was much for Slot to take encouragement from. Ekitike’s composed finish and Dominik Szoboszlai’s long-range effort highlighted Liverpool’s attacking depth and confidence returning to the side.

Slot reserved special praise for Szoboszlai’s adaptability, revealing how the Hungarian quickly adjusted after Frankfurt’s unexpected 5-2-3 formation forced Liverpool to tweak their pressing approach. “He’s been one of our most consistent players,” Slot noted. “He’s played almost every minute for us, which says a lot about his quality and reliability.”

With the international schedule and domestic fixtures continuing to pile up, Slot’s management of player fitness will be key in maintaining momentum. The Reds’ next challenge lies in building consistency while ensuring injuries don’t derail their growing rhythm.