It’s been a difficult start to life at Liverpool for Alexander Isak, but nothing will have prepared the new summer signing for a turn of events this cruel in his first season at Anfield.
Thanks to nagging injuries and poor form, the 26-year-old had scored just three goals for the club across all competitions in his first 16 appearances for the Reds.
So when he came on at halftime against Tottenham in mid-December, his opening goal felt like an early Christmas present that could help him springboard into a strong run akin to that of fellow new addition Hugo Ekitike who was beginning to heat up.
Instead, that goal came at too high a cost.
Isak was injured in the process of scoring, and he now faces a significant spell on the sidelines before he can return to help his club meander a topsy-turvy 2025/26 campaign.
MORE: Updated list of Premier League top goal scorers for 2025/26 season
What is Alexander Isak’s injury?
Isak sustained an ankle injury and fractured fibula, according to confirmation from Liverpool. He underwent surgery to repair the damage.
There were fears of a long-term injury from the moment the summer signing was forced off the field just before the hour mark of the 2-1 win over Tottenham on December 20.
Isak was brought on at halftime to replace Conor Bradley, and while he opened the scoring in the 56th minute, there was immediate concern as he was unable to get up and celebrate. He had been injured by a last-gasp tackle from Micky van de Ven.
MORE: Recap Liverpool’s 2-1 win over Tottenham which saw Alexander Isak injured while scoring
How long will Alexander Isak be out?
Isak will now face a long spell on the sidelines.
Although the club refused to put a timeline on his return, reports claim he could be out “a few months.” On December 23, head coach Arne Slot said the forward was likely looking at “a couple of months”, adding that he was confident Isak would play again this season. That was despite Paul Joyce of The Times reporting that the Swede was at risk of missing the rest of 2025/26.
When will Alexander Isak return?
While much is unknown regarding Isak’s return, some speculation can be made.
A return sometime in March could be on the cards for Isak, or potentially early April if he needs a bit longer. This would tally with Slot’s indication of at least two months out.
By the time the March international break comes around (March 23-31), the Premier League will be 28 matches into the 36-game season, while the Champions League will be into the quarterfinals.
Games Isak will definitely miss include Liverpool’s visit to Arsenal on Jan. 8 and a home game against Man City on Feb. 8, while a potential Champions League Round of 16 matchup (first leg March 10-11, second leg March 17-18) feels possible but unlikely should they reach that stage.
The Reds finish the Premier League season with a difficult domestic schedule, so Isak would be a welcome addition once he’s back in action. Late-season games against Everton (April 18), Man United (May 2), Chelsea (May 9), and Aston Villa (May 17) could be key for his presence to be made.
Should Liverpool reach deep into the Champions League, Isak could also return for potential quarterfinal matches (April 7-8, April 14-15), semifinals (April 28-29, May 5-6) or the final (May 30).
