As Mohamed Salah waved farewell to the Anfield crowd after sustaining an injury on Saturday, the emotional reaction from both the player and fans suggested it could be his final appearance at home. Fortunately, manager Arne Slot confirmed Friday that the Egyptian is expected to return before the end of the season with a minor muscle issue.
This weekend, Liverpool travel to Old Trafford without their talisman, who has scored 13 goals in 16 games against Manchester United—the most of any Premier League-era player against the Red Devils. Against the other 'big six' sides, Salah has amassed 49 goals and 22 assists.
In his absence, the spotlight falls on Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz, Liverpool's two most expensive signings in history. Both must rise to the occasion against United, Chelsea, and Aston Villa in the coming fortnight.
Slot acknowledged that his tenure will be judged on getting the best from this duo. After Liverpool's Champions League exit, he insisted the future is bright. That optimism hinges on Isak and Wirtz delivering consistent performances.
Last Saturday, both summer signings—costing a combined £241 million—scored against Crystal Palace. Yet Isak has yet to complete 90 minutes for Liverpool due to injuries, while Wirtz has flashed brilliance without a statement performance. The German has no goals or assists against top-half Premier League teams this season, but Slot called that a "coincidence" and expressed full confidence in Wirtz's ability to shine in big games.
Isak managed only 18 touches against Palace, following nine against Everton and five against PSG since returning from injury. His goal—his first Premier League strike at Anfield for Liverpool—should boost his confidence. Virgil van Dijk noted the team recognizes Isak's quality and stressed that goals are a striker's key trigger.
Slot added, "Having Alex more available would help convert chances into goals, which we haven't done well this season." Wirtz highlighted the need to feed Isak, especially with Hugo Ekitike sidelined. Wirtz's own tally of seven goals and 10 assists is respectable, but he admits he must improve. His finish against Palace showcased his class, and he has bulked up to adapt to the Premier League's physicality.
Slot praised Wirtz's development, noting a late sprint and finish against Palace that he doubted Wirtz could have executed eight months ago. "He's already an elite player at 22, and he can only get better," Slot said, referencing the club's summer signings' age profile.
Liverpool are reportedly targeting RB Leipzig's Yan Diomande, a versatile winger, to further bolster the attack. But for now, Isak and Wirtz have a golden opportunity to prove their worth. Slot admitted, "We can be on a much higher level than we are now."
Victory at Old Trafford would lift Liverpool to third on goal difference, a remarkable feat given their struggles this season. If Isak and Wirtz can fulfill their potential, the future at Anfield could be very bright indeed.