When Alexander Isak came to Liverpool in that record-breaking deal (it’s GBP 130 million), fans thought he would flip the switch for Liverpool’s attack. Unfortunately, instead of goals, injuries are being scored. Most of what was supposed to be a big season has ended in rehab, and just as he looks ready to go, something else starts going wrong.The Liverpool striker has just suffered another setback. Although it is not as severe as before, it makes you wonder how long it will take for him to eventually get back to his best level.
Alexander Isaac’s latest injury: what happened?
According to Reuters, it was launched in December 2025. Playing against Tottenham, Isak scored but then immediately hit the deck after colliding with defender Micky van de Veen. Scans showed a fracture of the fibula, a difficult injury for any footballer, as well as ankle damage. He needed surgery and spent several months out and missed at least 20 matches in the process. Even after returning to training, he was off pace, and the coaches made it clear that he would not return to full intensity overnight.And just when things seemed to be improving, Isak strained his back during training. It’s certainly not as bad as breaking your leg, but for a striker, the groin muscles do a lot of work: running, shooting and sudden changes in direction all become harder. However, it is important to note that this type of injury is actually common when players have been out for a period of time and are trying to get back up to speed.
How long will it take to recover?
As for his previous injury (fibula fracture), suffered in December, he returned to training around March–April 2026, which is three to six months later. However, per goal, it often takes longer for these types of injuries to truly feel 100% (“match fit”). In fact, most coaches assumed that he would not actually be fully fit until the following season.As far as existing groin problems are concerned, recovery generally takes 1 to 3 weeks. However, the pace really varies, and rushing can set him back again. So far, early signs point towards a short absence rather than an entire season.Here, the pattern is familiar: Big injuries cause a series of smaller injuries while the body catches up again. After a long layoff, muscles are not as strong, coordination deteriorates, and new injuries are not uncommon, especially in top-flight football.
What’s next for Isak and Liverpool?
According to Reuters, Isak will miss one of the biggest games of the season, against Manchester United at the weekend. For Liverpool, this is not just a personal blow; This forces them to rework the entire attack. With manager Arne Slott left without a genuine centre-forward, and Hugo Ekitike already out for the season, the timing couldn’t be worse.