Carragher weighs in on Salah future as Isak injury forces Liverpool to rethink

December 24, 2025 Oliver Obel

Liverpool’s winter planning took an abrupt turn on Saturday night when Alexander Isak suffered a serious ankle injury moments after scoring at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Introduced from the bench in north London, Isak was expected to provide a central focal point as Liverpool chased control of the game. He needed little time to make his presence felt, finishing decisively to put his side ahead. The mood shifted instantly.

In the same passage of play, a collision with Tottenham defender Micky van de Ven left the striker on the ground. There was no celebration. Isak tried to continue but struggled to move freely, prompting medical staff to step in. He was eventually helped off, the early signs pointing to a lengthy absence.

Club confirms surgery

Liverpool confirmed later that day that the injury was serious, following further medical assessment.

"Alexander Isak today successfully underwent surgery on the injury he sustained on Saturday. The Liverpool striker was injured in a challenge in the process of scoring the opening goal against Tottenham Hotspur and had to be substituted. After diagnosis, an operation was completed today on an ankle injury that included a fibula fracture. Isak's rehabilitation will now continue at the AXA Training Centre, with no timeframe yet placed on his return."

The lack of a recovery timeline leaves Liverpool preparing for a congested period without a forward they had hoped would play an increasingly prominent role.

January plans under review

Jamie Carragher believes the timing of the injury may now shape Liverpool’s approach to the January transfer window. Speaking on Sky Sports’ Monday Night Football, the former defender said the setback reduces the likelihood of Liverpool allowing major attacking departures.

"I think for certain now Mo Salah will be staying at the club," Carragher said, arguing that Isak’s absence makes continuity more important than reshaping the squad mid-season.

He also suggested Liverpool could look outward for solutions instead, pointing to Bournemouth winger Antoine Semenyo as a player whose availability could offer flexibility without forcing a sale.

No blame, just misfortune

Carragher was less convinced that the challenge itself deserved heavy scrutiny. He said the defender had little choice but to attempt to block the shot and described the injury as a matter of misfortune rather than recklessness.

For Isak, the timing was particularly cruel. The goal offered a glimpse of his sharp movement and finishing, just as he appeared to be settling into his role.

Salah delivers elsewhere

Away from club football, Salah once again proved decisive for Egypt, scoring a stoppage-time winner in a 2–1 Africa Cup of Nations victory over Zimbabwe. The goal capped a strong opening performance and underlined his importance amid ongoing speculation over his Liverpool future.

The tournament carries added significance for Salah after injury cut short his involvement in the previous edition, making this campaign an opportunity for redemption on the international stage.

Tests ahead

Liverpool now return to domestic action with Wolves and Leeds United visiting Anfield, before a demanding run that includes trips to Fulham and Arsenal and an FA Cup third-round tie against Barnsley.

For head coach Arne Slot, the margin for error is narrow. With Isak sidelined and fixtures piling up, Liverpool’s winter decisions may be driven less by ambition and more by necessity.

Sources: Sky Sports, Liverpool club statement, match reporting