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Arne Slot described Alexander Isak's groin injury as "very unlucky and very unhappy," while remaining hopeful that his expensive signing would make a speedy return to fitness.
When Liverpool announced the record-breaking signing of Isak on Deadline Day following a drawn-out summer transfer saga, many anticipated the Reds would comfortably claim back-to-back Premier League titles.
However, a disrupted pre-season and a broken leg have ensured Isak's debut season on Merseyside has been far from smooth, despite having cemented his status as a top-level talent at St. James' Park.
The ex-Newcastle United forward had only recently made his comeback from a serious leg injury and appeared to be hitting his stride again after a few underwhelming performances. Isak netted his first Premier League goal at Anfield since swapping the Magpies' black and white for Liverpool red, but the Swedish international has since encountered another setback.
Here is everything you need to know about Isak's most recent injury and when he might next feature for Liverpool.
What Injury Does Alexander Isak Have?
Isak dealt with a string of niggling problems during his time at Newcastle, and those injury concerns have followed him to his new club. He was unfortunate to sustain a serious injury at Tottenham Hotspur before the Christmas period, which sidelined him for close to four months.
His current injury is far less severe, though it was still enough to keep him out of Sunday's fixture at Old Trafford. Reports of a groin problem picked up in training first surfaced on Saturday, and Arne Slot voiced his frustration to Sky Sports ahead of kick-off: "After our last win against Palace, you go into the week and in the start you already know you're going to miss out on Mo [Salah], and then during the week we miss out on Alex as well.
"But that's not the first time this season. Arsenal away, we had our both No. 9s not available as well and we were able to play a good game. So, it is the situation so accept it.
When Will Alexander Isak Return From Injury for Liverpool?
"Of course, very unlucky and unhappy with the fact Alex picked up a small—really small—injury," Slot lamented. "That's why this game came a bit too early."
These remarks support suggestions that Isak's campaign is not yet finished, despite only three Premier League matches remaining.
The Dutch manager appeared to hint that the Swedish forward could return as soon as next week, with Liverpool hosting Calum McFarlane's Chelsea at Anfield on Saturday lunchtime.
Liverpool are pushing for a Champions League spot, but Bournemouth's impressive unbeaten run has brought them into contention following Brighton & Hove Albion's loss at Newcastle United. With Hugo Ekitiké and Mohamed Salah also unavailable, Slot will be eager to have Isak fit for the closing stages of the season, provided his groin complaint is as minor as suggested.