Alexander Isak Injury Latest: Liverpool Boss Arne Slot Targets Spring Comeback
Liverpool manager Arne Slot has provided a hopeful update on striker Alexander Isak, indicating that a return to action could be only weeks away.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot suggests Alexander Isak may return by early April after surgery for fibula and ankle fractures, as the Reds compete for major honours.
The 26-year-old forward suffered fibula and ankle fractures during a December 20 encounter with Tottenham Hotspur, injuries that required surgical treatment. Although serious, the setback has not ended his season, as he continues to make encouraging strides in recovery.
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Isak became Liverpool’s most expensive signing when he joined from Newcastle United in the summer of 2025 for a British-record £125 million ($168m). Without a proper pre-season behind him, he faced an uphill battle to reach optimal fitness levels.
The injury followed a forceful tackle from Spurs defender Micky van de Ven, which led to the fractures and subsequent surgery.
Two months after being sidelined, Isak has resumed light on-field activity. Liverpool are carefully managing his workload, ensuring no undue pressure is placed on his recovery process.
Slot explained that Isak has begun running sessions on the pitch, though not yet in football boots. While refraining from setting a strict timeline, the Dutch coach suggested that, if progress continues, the striker may rejoin full training around late March or early April. Even then, additional time will be needed before he is match-ready.
He highlighted that rehabilitation involves daily gym and recovery work long before players return to the grass. Moving to pitch-based sessions marks significant progress, with ball work and integration into team training the next steps. Slot commended both Isak’s commitment and the club’s medical staff for guiding him smoothly through the process.
Before injury struck, Isak managed three goals in 16 outings. Liverpool remain convinced that his long-term impact will reflect the sizeable transfer fee once he is fully fit.
Slot described the forward’s first months at the club as demanding. Transitioning to a new team without months of structured training made it difficult to immediately influence matches in the high-intensity Premier League. With a relentless run of fixtures limiting preparation time, patience was always required.
Signs of improvement were evident in his goals against West Ham United and Tottenham, performances that suggested he was edging closer to the level he previously displayed at Newcastle.
As Liverpool enter the crucial phase of the 2025-26 season, Isak’s anticipated return could be pivotal. The Reds are still competing for FA Cup and Champions League success while striving to secure a top-four league position. Their Premier League campaign continues on Sunday with an away trip to Nottingham Forest.
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