The defensive duo were absent from Tuesday's session at the AXA Training Centre, which leaves Arne Slot short of defensive options ahead of the game against Qarabag
15:51, 27 Jan 2026Updated 15:57, 27 Jan 2026
Arne Slot
Arne Slot gave an update on Joe Gomez and Ibrahima Konate ahead of Qarabag(Image: )
Arne Slot has confirmed Ibrahima Konate and Joe Gomez will miss Wednesday's Champions League clash against Qarabag.
The duo were not involved in Tuesday's open training at the AXA Training Centre with Gomez suffering a hip injury in last weekend's defeat to Bournemouth, while Konate is currently on compassionate leave due to the passing of his father last week.
Speaking in Tuesday's pre-match press conference, Slot said no timeframe has been placed on Gomez's injury. "Not really. But I can confirm that he is not available for tomorrow," said the Dutchman. "I expect him back in a relatively short period of time," he added later.
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On Konate, Slot continued: "I spoke to him and you know why he is not here. He is having a hard time and I am expecting him back soon but not for tomorrow."
With Konate and Gomez out, in addition to the long-term absence of Giovanni Leoni, the Reds are expected to line up with a center-back pairing of Virgil van Dijk and Wataru Endo against Qarabag. Andy Robertson is another option Slot could utilize.
Despite the issues in defense, Slot was boosted by the return of Federico Chiesa on Tuesday. The winger has missed the last two matches due to a knock and will increase the pool of offensive players.
Liverpool also remains without Leoni, Conor Bradley and Alexander Isak.
The Reds head into Wednesday's game knowing three points will secure a spot in the last 16 of the competition.
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A draw might suffice, but after the loss at Bournemouth, Slot could do with a morale-boosting win.