Arne Slot Confirms Triple Injury Blow as Reds Battle Stretched Squad
Liverpool boss Arne Slot has officially confirmed that right-back Conor Bradley will miss the remainder of the 2025/26 season. The Northern Ireland international underwent successful surgery this week on a significant knee injury sustained during the recent goalless draw against Arsenal.
The injury occurred in stoppage time at the Emirates Stadium following a controversial clash with Gabriel Martinelli. While the Brazilian winger has since reached out to apologize, the damage involving both bone and ligaments means Bradley won’t return until the 2026/27 pre-season.
An Anfield Injury Crisis
Bradley isn’t the only long-term absentee at the AXA Training Centre. Slot revealed a grim outlook for the squad’s depth ahead of the clash with Burnley:
- Giovanni Leoni: The summer signing is also out for the season following an ACL tear.
- Alexander Isak: The star striker, recovering from a leg fracture, remains sidelined for “multiple months.”
- Mohamed Salah: Currently at the Africa Cup of Nations for Egypt’s third-place play-off; expected back for next week’s Champions League action.
Predicted XI: How Liverpool Lines Up Against Burnley
With Stefan Bajčetić and Jayden Danns also on the treatment table, Slot is forced to shuffle his pack. New signing Jeremie Frimpong is expected to keep his place, potentially in a more advanced role if Joe Gomez starts at right-back.
Likely Liverpool XI (4-3-3): Alisson; Frimpong, Konaté, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Mac Allister, Gravenberch, Szoboszlai; Wirtz, Gakpo, Ekitiké.
This right here sums up Arsenal and their ridiculous fan base. Conor Bradley has a potential career-ending injury and Martinelli smacks him with the ball, then kicks him, then drags him off the pitch. That’s why everyone hates that club. pic.twitter.com/o1vL76y2TM
— ChikaCFC (@ChykaCFC) January 9, 2026
Thiago Nuno is a football editor and analyst covering European leagues, match statistics, and transfer market trends.
