Isak and Gakpo Racing the Clock to Be Fit for Liverpool's Title Clash With Man City

Liverpool face an anxious 48 hours before the biggest match of their season so far, with two of their most important attackers carrying injuries into Sunday's top-of-the-table clash against Manchester City at Anfield. Head coach Andoni Iraola confirmed the news in an interview with beIN SPORTS, revealing that Alexander Isak and Cody Gakpo both left their national teams early because of fitness problems. Isak, Sweden's star striker, withdrew from his country's squad with a thigh issue, while Gakpo was forced off during the Netherlands' win over Serbia after picking up an ankle problem. Both men now face late fitness tests, and neither is guaranteed to be available against a City side that has won all five of its league matches. Iraola admitted the pair are currently sidelined but refused to rule them out, saying it remains a question of whether they recover in time for the weekend. The timing could hardly be worse for the unbeaten Reds. City arrive at Anfield as league leaders with a flawless record, and losing both Isak and Gakpo would leave Iraola desperately short of options. With the two forwards out, Liverpool may have to lean on Lewis Koumas as their only natural senior striker — a huge ask against the champions. The Liverpool boss struck an upbeat tone, insisting his side must defend well and "hurt them on the other side." But against the division's most ruthless attack, the Reds' title credentials may depend on the treatment table.