Alexander Isak sparks Liverpool comeback surge at Anfield as striker returns to training ahead of Manchester City FA Cup clash

After months on the sidelines, Alexander Isak is finally edging closer to a proper return in a Liverpool FC shirt.

The Swedish striker is expected to rejoin full training on Thursday—his first real session of the year—marking a turning point in what has been a frustrating debut campaign.

The 26-year-old has been out since just before Christmas after suffering a fibula fracture during a match against Tottenham Hotspur.

Since then, Liverpool have had to navigate a packed schedule without one of their marquee signings.

Perfect Timing for a Defining Month

Manager Arne Slot couldn’t have picked a better moment to welcome Isak back into the fold.

Liverpool are entering a make-or-break stretch, beginning with a high-stakes FA Cup trip to face Manchester City at the Etihad.

That’s just the beginning. A daunting UEFA Champions League quarter-final clash against Paris Saint-Germain looms shortly after, making squad depth and attacking options more critical than ever.

A Careful Return, Not a Rush

Despite the excitement, Liverpool are not planning to throw Isak straight into the starting lineup.

The club is expected to take a measured approach, easing him back with substitute appearances before considering a full return.

Given his lengthy absence, sharpness and match fitness won’t come overnight.

Slot and his staff are focused on avoiding any setbacks, especially with so much still on the line this season.

A Record Signing Still Finding His Feet

Isak’s move from Newcastle United came with massive expectations.

The £125 million fee made headlines across England, but his first season at Anfield hasn’t gone as planned.

Injury struggles and limited preparation time—partly due to pushing for the transfer—have seen him manage just three goals in 16 appearances so far.

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However, there’s still belief within the club that his quality will shine through once fully fit.

Eyes on More Than Just Club Football

While Liverpool’s immediate priorities are clear, Isak also has international ambitions.

With Graham Potter guiding Sweden back into the World Cup after a play-off win over Poland, the striker will be eager to prove his fitness and form on the biggest stage.

Balancing club and country expectations will be key in the coming months.

Mixed News on the Injury Front

Liverpool’s squad update isn’t entirely positive.

Goalkeeper Alisson Becker is set to miss the trip to Manchester City, while Jeremie Frimpong remains a doubt after picking up an injury on international duty.

On the brighter side, Mohamed Salah is expected to return after sitting out the previous match with a groin issue.

Salah’s Legacy and a Possible Farewell

There’s also an emotional undercurrent building around Salah.

As speculation grows about his future, Slot has openly acknowledged the forward’s legendary status at the club.

The Egyptian has been central to one of Liverpool’s most iconic attacking trios alongside Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino—a partnership still fondly remembered by fans.

If this does mark the beginning of his farewell stretch, Liverpool supporters will be hoping he signs off in style.

Impact and Consequences

Isak’s return could reshape Liverpool’s attacking dynamics at a crucial point in the season.

Even limited minutes off the bench could provide a fresh dimension—especially in tight matches where creativity and finishing make the difference.

However, the flip side is the risk of reinjury.

Rushing him back could derail both his recovery and Liverpool’s plans.

Meanwhile, the team’s current league position—sitting fifth—means there’s little margin for error in the race for Champions League qualification.

What’s Next?

Liverpool’s immediate focus is the FA Cup showdown with Manchester City, followed by the high-pressure Champions League tie against PSG.

Isak is likely to feature gradually across these fixtures, building rhythm ahead of the season’s final stretch.

Attention will also remain on squad fitness, Salah’s form, and whether Liverpool can secure a top-four finish while competing on multiple fronts.

Summary

Alexander Isak’s return to training offers Liverpool a timely boost as they head into one of the most demanding periods of their season.

While expectations will be tempered, his presence alone strengthens the squad’s attacking options.

At the same time, injuries elsewhere and the looming uncertainty around Salah add layers of complexity to an already intense campaign.

Bulleted Takeaways

• Alexander Isak is set to resume full training after a long injury layoff
• Liverpool face a crucial run of games including Manchester City and PSG
• The striker’s return will be gradual to avoid setbacks
• Injuries to key players like Alisson and Frimpong pose challenges
• Mohamed Salah is expected back and may be entering a farewell phase
• Liverpool are still battling to secure Champions League qualification
• Isak also has international ambitions with Sweden ahead of the World Cup