Liverpool's Record Signing Alexander Isak Out for Two Months With Broken Leg

Liverpool's hopes of defending their Premier League title have been dealt another major blow, with record signing Alexander Isak expected to be sidelined for a couple of months after fracturing his leg. Manager Arne Slot didn't mince words, accusing Tottenham’s Micky van de Ven of making a “reckless challenge” that caused the injury.

A Goal and a Fracture

The Swedish striker was injured during Saturday’s 2-1 victory over Spurs, getting hurt in the very act of scoring the opening goal. Isak immediately limped off the pitch after the tackle from the Dutch defender. On Monday, Liverpool confirmed the severity, stating he had undergone an operation for an ankle injury that included a fibula fracture.

“It’s going to be a long injury, for a couple of months,” Slot told reporters on Tuesday. “So, yeah, that’s a big, big, big disappointment for him. And as a result, also of course for us.”

Slot Slams "Reckless" Van de Ven Tackle

The Liverpool boss was pointed in his criticism of Van de Ven, calling the challenge “reckless.” He contrasted it with another red-card offense in the game, saying, “The tackle of Van de Ven, if you make that tackle 10 times, I think 10 times there’s a serious chance that a player gets a serious injury.”

A Challenging Season Gets Worse

This injury is the latest chapter in a difficult year for Isak since his British £125 million$168m ($168m) move from Newcastle. A protracted transfer meant he arrived unfit, and he's since scored just 3 goals.

His absence creates a striker crisis for Liverpool. Salah is away at the Africa Cup of Nations, and Cody Gakpo isn't expected back from injury until the new year. This leaves Hugo Ekitike and the seldom-used Federico Chiesa as the only senior forwards available. The situation may force Liverpool into the January transfer market and could also reopen conversations around Salah's future, following his recent public fallout with the club.