As of January 2026, Liverpool’s medical department is working overtime to navigate a challenging winter period. Following an eventful FA Cup victory over Barnsley on January 12, the club has provided clarity on three players who have dominated the headlines: Hugo Ekitike, Alexander Isak, and the teenage sensation Rio Ngumoha.
Here is the comprehensive breakdown of their status, return dates, and the impact on Arne Slot’s squad.
1. Hugo Ekitike: The Boost
Status: Returned to Action
Injury: Muscle Soreness (DOMS)
Latest News: After a brief scare that saw him miss high-profile clashes against Fulham and Arsenal, the 23-year-old Frenchman is officially back. Ekitike, who has been a standout since his summer move, was sidelined due to “Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness” (DOMS)—essentially extreme fatigue and muscle tightness.
Arne Slot reintroduced him as a substitute in the 60th minute against Barnsley on January 12. He looked sharp, scoring a goal and providing an assist to secure the 4-1 win. His return is critical, as he is currently Liverpool’s most consistent fit striker.
2. Alexander Isak: The Long Road
Status: Sidelined (Surgery)
Injury: Fractured Fibula and Ankle Damage
Expected Return: March 2026
Latest News: Liverpool’s marquee signing, Alexander Isak, remains the club’s biggest concern. He sustained a serious injury during the 2-1 win over Tottenham just before Christmas after a heavy challenge from Micky van de Ven.
Isak has successfully undergone surgery on his left leg. While there were initial fears that his season might be over, Arne Slot confirmed that the Swedish international is making steady progress and is expected to play a role in the final two months of the campaign. For now, he is restricted to gym work and rehabilitation.
3. Rio Ngumoha: The Scare
Status: Minor Issue (Cramp)
Injury: Cramp/Fatigue
Expected Return: January 17 (vs. Burnley)
Latest News: The 17-year-old starlet gave fans a fright when he pulled up in the 73rd minute against Barnsley after an impressive first senior start. He appeared to catch his studs in the turf and was clutching his leg before being substituted.
However, Arne Slot was quick to calm fears in his post-match press conference, stating: “I assume and expect it’s just cramp.” The manager noted that the intensity of a senior match is a significant step up for the teenager, and his body is still adjusting. Ngumoha is expected to be available for the bench when Liverpool faces Burnley this Saturday.
Liverpool Injury Summary & Return Dates
| Player | Injury Type | Status / Return Date |
|---|---|---|
| Hugo Ekitike | Muscle Fatigue | FIT (Returned Jan 12) |
| Rio Ngumoha | Cramp | January 17, 2026 |
| Wataru Endo | Ankle | January 17, 2026 |
| Stefan Bajcetic | Hamstring | February 2026 |
| Alexander Isak | Fractured Fibula | March 2026 |
| Conor Bradley | Knee Ligaments | August 2026 (Season Over) |
| Giovanni Leoni | ACL Tear | August 2026 (Season Over) |
The Tactical Outlook
With Mohamed Salah still away at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and Conor Bradley recently ruled out for the season, the return of Ekitike is a massive relief for Slot. The manager has been forced to use Cody Gakpo in a more central role, but having Ekitike fit allows Gakpo to rotate or move back to the wing.
The club has reportedly decided not to dive into the January transfer market for short-term fixes, instead trusting the depth of the squad and the emergence of youth talents like Ngumoha to bridge the gap until Isak returns in the spring.