Liverpool gain crucial edge as Iraola clears Jacquet for Man City clash

Liverpool have received a major injury boost ahead of Sunday’s Premier League clash with Manchester City, as head coach Andoni Iraola confirmed that 21‑year‑old defender Jeremy Jacquet is fit and available for selection at Anfield. The reassurance comes just hours before the Reds host the league leaders.

Hamstring scare raises doubts

The 21‑year‑old defender emerged as a doubt after suffering a hamstring problem while representing France during the international break. The French Football Federation later confirmed a minor strain to his left hamstring, forcing him to miss France’s second fixture against Belgium.

Jacquet’s fitness bolsters defensive plans

Jacquet returned to first‑team training on Thursday, prompting Iraola to provide further reassurance ahead of the visit of the Premier League leaders. Speaking at his pre‑match press conference, Iraola said: “Obviously he has done well. Firstly he is a good player, you’ve seen clips but if you don’t see him every day you can’t appreciate what he has. I am happy for him personally, debut with France, that is always tough. He played well, he should be happy but has a long way to go. He is fit and ready to go. He will be fine, we need to train tomorrow.”

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Jacquet’s clearance to play gives Liverpool crucial defensive stability at a critical moment. Iraola had already confirmed that forwards Alexander Isak and Cody Gakpo will miss the clash, so avoiding a defensive crisis is vital for maintaining the established back‑line structure.

Since his summer transfer to Merseyside, the Frenchman has become an indispensable partner for captain Virgil van Dijk. Their partnership has formed the bedrock of Liverpool’s strong defence this season, making Jacquet’s presence essential for the tactical setup against Manchester City’s formidable attack.

With Liverpool looking to extend their unbeaten start to the domestic campaign, Jacquet’s recovery could prove decisive as Iraola seeks to overcome the absence of two key forwards and secure a positive result against the league leaders.