Liverpool boss Arne Slot has delivered concerning news regarding forward Cody Gakpo’s fitness. The Dutch manager confirmed that the 26-year-old is facing a significant spell away from the pitch.
Gakpo sustained the injury during the Reds’ thrilling 3-3 draw against Leeds United last Saturday. He was forced to leave the Premier League contest late in the second half. Initial fears have now been substantiated with Slot’s definitive statement.
The forward was notably absent from the traveling squad that journeyed to Italy. Liverpool is preparing for a crucial Champions League fixture against Inter Milan on Tuesday. Gakpo’s exclusion signals a substantial blow to the team’s attacking options for the challenging European tie.
Speaking to the media in Milan on Monday evening, Slot provided specific details on Gakpo’s expected recovery timeline. He indicated that the forward will not be available for action in the immediate future.
The former PSV star, whose father has Togolese roots, joins a list of sidelined players. Slot confirmed the situation when discussing other absentees, including Federico Chiesa, who is currently unwell.
Slot stated, “Cody picked up an injury against Leeds and he will be out for a few weeks.”
Slot also provided an update on the status of Chiesa, whose illness is ill-timed.
The manager added, “Federico (Chiesa) is ill, that is poor timing you could say but not something you can do anything about.” He continued, “If he has an amazing recovery which doctors don’t expect he might travel tomorrow, but that’s not what I expect.”
Liverpool faces an immediate test of their resilience without Gakpo against a formidable Inter Milan side. The management and medical staff will now focus intensely on Gakpo’s rehabilitation.
