Liverpool fans, take a deep breath—help is on the way. Manager Arne Slot has offered a glimmer of hope regarding the return of two key players, Alisson Becker and Alexander Isak, who both missed today's massive clash against Manchester United at Old Trafford.

With the Reds already facing a daunting trip to their arch-rivals, the absence of these stars has left the squad looking thin. Alisson is still nursing a hamstring injury and hasn't resumed full training, while Isak is sidelined with a minor groin problem. The situation is so stretched that third-choice goalkeeper Freddie Woodman is starting for the second straight week, and the substitutes' bench features six under-21 players.

But there's light at the end of the tunnel. Speaking to Sky Sports before kick-off, Slot shared his optimism with pundit Jamie Carragher. "It wasn't much [Isak's injury], but it was too much for him to be able to play today," Slot explained. "Alisson hasn't trained with us yet. We're hoping for him to be ready next week, but we have to wait and see how the week will go. The same can be said about Alex. We're hoping to have him back next week."

That timeline points to the home match against Chelsea next weekend as a potential return date for both players. While Alisson's absence was always expected given his lack of training, Isak's late scratch is a significant blow—especially with Liverpool already missing Hugo Ekitike and Mo Salah. As a result, Cody Gakpo has shifted to center-forward, with Florian Wirtz expected to start on the left wing.

For the Reds' record signing, this latest setback is another chapter in a frustrating season. But if Slot's hints prove accurate, Liverpool could soon have their star duo back in the fold—just in time for a crucial stretch of fixtures.