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Liverpool faces centre-back crisis as injuries leave squad thin

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 27, 2026, 4:58 PM

Last updated Jul 27, 2026

Liverpool faces centre-back crisis as injuries leave squad thin
Summary

Liverpool's pre-season opener revealed critical issues in their centre-back position after Joe Gomez was injured early in the match against Sunderland. With both Jeremy Jacquet and Giovanni Leoni unavailable, the club turned to new signings Mor Talla Ndiaye and Ifeanyi Ndukwe for depth. Head coach Andoni Iraola has noted the defensive unit is 'very thin,' prompting discussions about potential reinforcements. An update on Gomez's injury is expected soon, as Virgil van Dijk remains the only fit senior centre-back. The team also looks to integrate Jacquet into the lineup ahead of their clash with Leeds.

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Key Details
  • •Joe Gomez was injured in the eighth minute against Sunderland.
  • •Virgil van Dijk is Liverpool's only fit senior centre-back at this time.
  • •New signings Ndiaye and Ndukwe were pressed into action unexpectedly.
  • •An injury update on Gomez is anticipated this week.
  • •Jacquet may debut against Leeds on Sunday.
Latest Updates
  • 5:05 PMYahoo Sports — Liverpool's centre-back situation and why Iraola must act
  • 4:58 PMBBC Sport — Liverpool's centre-back situation and why Iraola must act
What they're saying
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BBC Sport looks at Liverpool's issues at centre-back, and what Andoni Iraola might do to fix them.

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BBC Sport looks at Liverpool's issues at centre-back, and what Andoni Iraola might do to fix them.

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