Liverpool’s hopes of defending their League Cup title have taken a hit as Trent Alexander-Arnold has been ruled out of Sunday’s final against Newcastle United at Wembley.
The right-back sustained an ankle injury during Tuesday’s Champions League loss to Paris Saint-Germain, leaving manager Arne Slot with a depleted defensive lineup.
“Trent is indeed not available. He will not be there at the final,” Slot confirmed on Friday. While the severity of Alexander-Arnold’s injury is still being assessed, the club expects him to return before the end of the season.
Liverpool’s defensive woes are compounded by the absence of Conor Bradley and Joe Gomez, both sidelined with hamstring injuries.
However, Slot remains optimistic about Ibrahima Konate’s availability, stating that the center-back, who was substituted during extra time against PSG, is expected to train and could feature in the final.
Despite their Champions League elimination, Slot emphasized the importance of the League Cup final. “You play games like this to win it, and that’s what we’re going to try to do,” he said. “We’re really looking forward to playing a final again because you cannot take a final for granted.”
Liverpool, who defeated Chelsea in last year’s League Cup final, are also on track for a Premier League title, holding a significant lead in the standings. However, the absence of key players, including Alexander-Arnold, poses a challenge as they aim to secure their first silverware of the season.
Adding to the uncertainty, Alexander-Arnold, Mohamed Salah, and Virgil van Dijk are all in the final months of their contracts, with no extensions announced. Van Dijk, reportedly weighing an offer from Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal, expressed uncertainty about his future, while Slot reiterated his desire to retain the defender.
