Liverpool faces centre‑back injury crisis ahead of season

Liverpool Football Club’s defensive line is severely depleted as pre‑season begins. New manager Andoni Iraola reported that centre‑back Joe Gomez suffered an injury after just seven minutes in the first friendly against Sunderland, stating “the worst news was that Joe (Gomez) was injured straight away.” Recent signings Jérémy Jacquet and Giovanni Leoni are also out with long‑term injuries, and Ibrahima Konaté departed for Real Madrid on a free transfer, leaving the club with limited options at centre‑back. Analysts stress the need for a reliable stopper, noting that veteran Virgil van Dijk is not participating in the pre‑season tour either.

The injury list adds pressure on Liverpool to find immediate reinforcement before the Premier League campaign starts.