Liverpool's Iraola addresses striker shortage ahead of match with City
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 9, 2026, 1:12 PM
Last updated Oct 9, 2026

Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola confirmed that forwards Alexander Isak and Cody Gakpo will miss the upcoming Champions League match against Manchester City due to injuries sustained during the international break. With Hugo Ekitike already sidelined long-term, Iraola faces a striker depth crisis as the team prepares to compete. Youngster Lewis Koumas, with limited first-team experience, may be tasked with a key role, while options like Bradley Barcola and midfielders Floirian Wirtz and Dominik Szoboszlai could also feature in attacking positions. The match is scheduled for this Saturday, and Iraola remains focused on adapting to the situation despite the limited training time available.
- •Iraola confirms Isak and Gakpo are injured and will miss the match.
- •Hugo Ekitike is already out with a long-term injury.
- •Koumas may have to step up as the main striker.
- •City match is crucial for Liverpool's Champions League aspirations.
- •Iraola optimistic about adapting despite limited training time.
- 1:12 PMYahoo Sports — Andoni Iraola Dealing with Striker Depth Crisis Ahead of City Clash
"Liverpool face £900M sportswashing cheats Manchester City without the services of Alexander Isak and Cody Gakpo.
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