The duo’s absence from Tuesday’s training session at the AXA Training Centre has heightened worries among supporters, with the Reds facing a severe shortage of recognised centre-backs just when defensive solidity is paramount.
In his pre-match press conference on January 27, 2026, Slot addressed the concerns head-on. On Joe Gomez, who limped off in the first half of Saturday’s 3-2 Premier League defeat at Bournemouth after a hip injury sustained in a collision with goalkeeper Alisson Becker, the Dutch boss offered little optimism for an immediate return. “Not really but I can confirm he is not available for tomorrow,” Slot stated when asked for an update on Gomez’s fitness. He added that there is no timescale on the Englishman’s recovery, leaving his availability for the weekend’s home clash against Newcastle United uncertain. The incident at the Vitality Stadium saw Gomez forced off early, prompting an emergency reshuffle that exposed Liverpool’s thin backline options.
For Ibrahima Konaté, the situation is more sensitive. The French international has missed Liverpool’s last two matches—against Marseille in the Champions League and the Bournemouth loss—due to compassionate leave following the death of his father. Slot confirmed Konaté did not train on Tuesday and will sit out the Qarabag fixture. “Of course I spoke to him,” Slot said empathetically. “If you know why he’s not here, we know he’s having a hard time. But for now, we will leave [him] with the time he needs.” While the manager expressed hope that Konaté would return “in a relatively short time” or “soon,” he stressed the personal nature of the bereavement and the club’s commitment to supporting him fully.
The absences leave Virgil van Dijk as Liverpool’s only senior, fit centre-back heading into the decisive league-phase finale against Qarabag. A victory would secure direct qualification to the last 16, avoiding the play-offs in a revamped format where the Reds currently sit in a respectable but vulnerable position. With long-term absentees like Giovanni Leoni (season-ending injury) and others sidelined, Slot hinted at radical measures, including potentially deploying a midfielder—such as Wataru Endo or even Dominik Szoboszlai (who has filled in at right-back recently)—in central defence to partner Van Dijk. “We have to put together a patched-up partnership,” Slot acknowledged, underscoring the defensive crisis exacerbated by fixture congestion, injuries, and limited transfer activity in the January window.
Fan reaction has been one of growing anxiety, with Reds supporters flooding social media platforms with concern over the backline fragility. Posts highlighted the “defensive problems” and the risk of a makeshift setup against Qarabag, who, while underdogs, could exploit any vulnerabilities in a high-stakes encounter. One prominent fan account noted the irony of the reigning Premier League champions being reduced to one natural centre-back, while others called for urgent reinforcements before the window closes. The mood echoes broader frustrations after a recent dip in form, including the Bournemouth loss that dropped Liverpool in the standings and amplified scrutiny on Slot’s squad management.
Despite the challenges, Slot remained pragmatic about the path forward. He emphasized the need for improvement “in both boxes” to contend for silverware this season, warning that failing to do so would invite “a lot of noise.” Positives included Andy Robertson’s availability after coming off the bench at Bournemouth and Federico Chiesa’s return to training, offering some attacking options. However, the defensive headache dominates headlines, with Slot’s update reinforcing that Liverpool must navigate this period with creativity and resilience.
The Qarabag match now carries added weight—not just for qualification, but as a test of depth and adaptability amid mounting injury concerns. For Konaté, the focus remains on personal recovery; for Gomez, it’s a waiting game. Reds fans will hope for swift resolutions, but for now, the priority is securing the win on Wednesday with whatever resources are available. Anfield awaits, tensions high, as Slot’s side looks to steady the ship in turbulent times.
