Liverpool manager Arne Slot has addressed concerns regarding the fitness of defenders Conor Bradley and Ibrahima Konate ahead of their highly anticipated clash with Manchester City. Both players sustained injuries during Liverpool’s recent 2-0 victory over Real Madrid in the Champions League, raising doubts about their availability for the upcoming Premier League showdown.

Conor Bradley’s situation

Bradley was forced off during the match against Real Madrid due to a hamstring injury. Speaking about the 20-year-old’s condition, Slot revealed:“Conor is still undergoing scans, and we’re waiting for a complete assessment. At this point, it seems he could be sidelined for around four weeks, but we’ll have a clearer picture soon. It’s disappointing, especially with such a busy schedule ahead.”

If the initial timeline holds, Bradley could miss several critical fixtures in December, including games against Newcastle, Everton, and Tottenham. This leaves Liverpool with limited depth in the right-back position, particularly as Trent Alexander-Arnold has only recently returned from his own injury.

Ibrahima Konate’s availability

The news regarding Konate is somewhat more optimistic. The French defender suffered a late knock to his knee during the same game, but Slot shared a cautiously positive update:“Ibrahima has taken a strong hit to his knee, and there’s some unease about it. However, he’s feeling hopeful that it’s nothing too serious. We’ll make a final decision after observing him in the next training session, but his availability for Sunday remains uncertain.”

Konate’s presence would be a significant boost for Liverpool as they prepare to face Manchester City’s formidable attack led by Erling Haaland.

Trent Alexander-Arnold in contention

Amid the injury concerns, Slot also confirmed that Trent Alexander-Arnold is fit and could make his return to the starting lineup against City:“Trent has been working hard in training and is ready to be considered for selection. Having him back in the squad is a massive plus for us.”

Challenges ahead for Liverpool

Liverpool’s defensive options are stretched thin as they navigate a packed December schedule. With Bradley likely sidelined and Konate a doubt, the Reds may need to rely on Joe Gomez and other squad members to step up in these critical matches.

The clash against Manchester City will undoubtedly test Liverpool’s depth and resilience, but Slot remains hopeful his team can rise to the occasion despite these setbacks.