Liverpool suffer another massive blow as Arsenal Premier League title race heats up

Liverpool have been dealt a potential injury blow as Alisson Becker was forced to leave the pitch during their Champions League match against Galatasaray.

The Brazilian goalkeeper was substituted 56 minutes into the game, with Giorgi Mamardashvili stepping in to fill his boots. The 32-year-old required extensive treatment after seemingly injuring himself while making a save against Victor Osimhen, before eventually being taken off the field.

Prior to his injury, Alisson had been kept busy, having made three saves for Liverpool. However, he was unable to prevent Osimhen's 16th-minute penalty, which put Galatasaray ahead.

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With a crucial match against Chelsea looming on Saturday, Liverpool will be anxiously monitoring the fitness of their first-choice goalkeeper. Mamardashvili, who made his Champions League debut for the Reds when he replaced Alisson in Istanbul, is now poised to make his first Premier League appearance at Stamford Bridge.

While Arsenal will not be wanting to gain a sporting advantage thanks to the misfortune of injuries, Alisson's injury continues a bad few days for the league leaders. On Saturday, they lost 2-1 to Crystal Palace thanks to a late Eddie Nketiah strike.

Then, Arne Slot and co. had to watch on as the Gunners came from behind late doors to defeat Newcastle United 2-1 at St James' Park on Sunday. Mikel Arteta's side now sit just two points behind the Merseyside club at the top of the table.

If things could not get any worse for Liverpool, their talisman Hugo Ekitike has also left the field with an injury. The exact extent of the issues for both men remain to be seen.

Arsenal are back in action on Wednesday night when they host Olympiacos in the Champions League. A victory at the Emirates Stadium would continue their 100 per cent record in the competition this season.

At the weekend, the Premier League takes centre stage once more before the October international break. Arsenal host West Ham United in a 3pm kick off before Liverpool face Chelsea at Stamford Bridge later on Saturday evening.