“Liverpool could benefit as rival striker picks up injury while on international duty.”

Liverpool Could Gain Ground in Title Race as City Striker Picks Up Injury

Liverpool’s title defense might be impacted by events unfolding away from Anfield during the international break.

Manchester City forward Omar Marmoush had to be substituted just ten minutes into Egypt’s 0-0 draw with Burkina Faso, according to mancity.com. A photo shared by the Egyptian FA on X (via BBC Sport) confirmed the striker had suffered a bruised knee ligament and would undergo an X-ray upon returning to Cairo on Wednesday.

The injury, sustained while playing alongside Mohamed Salah for Egypt, came after a challenge early in the match. Though Marmoush attempted to continue, he was ultimately taken off, potentially creating a selection headache for Pep Guardiola when domestic action resumes.

Any injury in City’s attacking lineup is significant, especially in a tight title race. While Guardiola’s squad has depth, Marmoush’s absence could offer Liverpool a slight advantage. City have already dropped points in two of their first three league matches and trailed Arne Slot’s Liverpool by six points heading into the break.

While Egypt remain in control of their World Cup qualification group with 20 points, Guardiola will be eager for updates on Marmoush’s condition. The striker was allowed to take a penalty—normally Salah’s responsibility—in their match against Ethiopia, underscoring his growing role.

Adding to the fitness concerns around title contenders, Liverpool’s big summer signing Alexander Isak has played just 20 minutes of football since last season due to injury.

With two more games left for Egypt in World Cup qualifying, their national team will be hoping key players are fit for October’s fixtures. Meanwhile, for Liverpool, it’s another example of how international duties can shape the Premier League season in unpredictable ways.