Arne Slot confirms Diogo Jota injury blow ahead of Arsenal clash as Liverpool boss gives positive Federico Chiesa update

Jota, a key player for the Reds this season with four goals and two assists in 10 appearances, suffered an injury in last weekend’s match against Chelsea, forcing him to leave the pitch early. The injury kept him sidelined for their midweek Champions League encounter with RB Leipzig and now the Portuguese will also miss the trip to north London.

In addition to Jota’s unavailability, Slot also revealed that Federico Chiesa also remains unavailable but might resume training on Friday.

"I think they feel good but not when it comes to playing for us during the weekend," he told reporters. "Federico might train with us today or tomorrow – but Diogo definitely not. And Conor Bradley, let's see if he can be with us tomorrow."

Liverpool’s first-choice goalkeeper, Alisson Becker, remains sidelined with a hamstring injury he sustained against Crystal Palace. As a result, backup goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher has stepped in to fill Alisson’s role, and Slot confirmed that Kelleher will continue to be Liverpool’s starting goalkeeper against the Gunners.

On Alisson’s condition, Slot remarked: "Progressing well like we expect, not a short-term recovery, so difficult to judge. We judge him at the end phase of his rehab but not yet. Don't expect him to be at Brighton in the cup."

Slot has made a strong impact since taking the managerial role at Liverpool, guiding the team to an impressive start to the Premier League season. Despite the injuries affecting key players, Liverpool have maintained a high level of performance, and Sunday’s matchup against Arsenal presents a chance for the Reds to extend their winning form and hold on to the top spot of the league standings.