Liverpool F.C. Expect a triple injury boost this season with Hugo Ekitike, Giovanni Leoni, and Conor Bradley all set to return to action. The news offers a lift for a squad that failed to add a right-sided winger, midfielder, or right-back before the transfer deadline.
Return timelines for the trio remain vague, and none are expected to be fully fit immediately. Hugo Ekitike has been sidelined since April with a serious injury and may feature before the end of 2026. Giovanni Leoni, injured since last September, should return to contention shortly. The situation surrounding Conor Bradley is less clear. The Times noted, "Reports about his status have been few and far between and no one appears to be entirely clear on the extent of his injury, nor his realistic recovery time." Bradley has been out since the start of the year.
The anticipated returns are significant given Liverpool's quiet end to the transfer window. The club made a last-gasp attempt to sign Malo Gusto on loan from Chelsea to cover both midfield and right-back, but Chelsea were unwilling to let the player go cheaply. With those deals failing, the club is now largely biding its time and waiting for injuries to ease up. The returning players are seen as vital for the run-in. Liverpool expect to get at least a month of play from all three, with one or two potentially offering significantly more.
The Times framed the news positively, stating that "Liverpool expect all three of Hugo Ekitike, Giovanni Leoni and Conor Bradley to play a 'chunk' of the season." This suggests the medical and coaching staff are confident in their progress despite the lengthy absences. While the exact dates are unknown, the expectation of meaningful minutes is a boost. The team prepares for their match at Portman Road this Thursday.
