Arne Slot reveals major Liverpool injury setback ahead of Carabao Cup final.

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has confirmed the unfortunate news that Trent Alexander-Arnold will miss this weekend’s Carabao Cup final due to injury.

The England international was forced off during Liverpool’s midweek defeat to Paris Saint-Germain at Anfield, immediately raising concerns about his availability for the upcoming clash against Newcastle United.

Despite Alexander-Arnold’s absence, Liverpool remain favorites for Sunday’s showdown at Wembley. However, Slot would have undoubtedly preferred to have one of his key players fit for the occasion.

Liverpool are the defending champions, having secured the trophy last season with a dramatic extra-time victory over Chelsea, courtesy of Virgil van Dijk’s goal. Injuries hampered their squad on that occasion as well, but they still managed to get the job done—something they’ll aim to replicate this year.

Speaking about Alexander-Arnold’s situation, Slot, as quoted by journalist Fabrizio Romano, confirmed the right-back will not feature in the final. However, he remains hopeful that the 26-year-old will return before the season ends.

This injury setback comes at a crucial time, especially with Alexander-Arnold’s future uncertain. His contract is set to expire this summer, and there has been little indication of a renewal. If he does leave, this could mean he has limited opportunities left in a Liverpool shirt.

Nonetheless, if all goes well in his recovery, he could still play a role in the remainder of the campaign—potentially departing with a Premier League winners’ medal.