Liverpool Defender Joe Gomez May Need Surgery After Hamstring Injury

Liverpool defender Joe Gomez could need surgery on his hamstring after suffering another major injury setback during his return to action this month. The 27-year-old, who has battled injuries throughout his career, now faces weeks on the sidelines, leaving his season in doubt.

What Happened to Joe Gomez?

Gomez injured his hamstring just 11 minutes into Liverpool’s FA Cup match against Plymouth Argyle on February 9. This was his first game back after recovering from a similar injury he picked up in December 2024 during a Premier League win over West Ham.

Liverpool manager Arne Slot called the injury a “big blow” for both Gomez and the team. He explained that the defender worked hard to return to fitness but felt discomfort during a sprint early in the Plymouth game. Scans later confirmed the injury was serious.

Will Gomez Need Surgery?

Slot revealed that surgery is still an option. “He might [need surgery], but that’s something we still have to assess,” the manager said during a press conference ahead of Liverpool’s match against Aston Villa.

If Gomez undergoes surgery, he could miss most of the remaining season. However, Slot hopes the defender will return in the “final phase” of the 2024/25 campaign.

Gomez’s Injury History

Liverpool Defender Joe Gomez and model of Hamstring injury on other side

This is the latest in a string of injuries for Gomez, who joined Liverpool in 2015. He has played just 17 games this season, his lowest since his debut year. His recent struggles include:

December 2024: Injured his hamstring against West Ham, missing six weeks.
February 2025: Re-injured the same hamstring minutes into his comeback.

Fans and teammates have praised Gomez’s resilience, but his frequent absences raise questions about his long-term role at Liverpool.

How Does This Affect Liverpool?

Gomez’s injury leaves Liverpool with only three fit center-backs: Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konaté, and Jarell Quansah. Midfielder Wataru Endo has also filled in as a defender recently.

The timing is tough for Liverpool, who lead the Premier League by seven points. They face key matches in March, including a clash with Manchester City.

What’s Next for Gomez?

Liverpool’s medical team will decide whether surgery is needed in the coming days. If Gomez avoids an operation, he could return in late April or May. Either way, he is expected to miss “numerous weeks”.

Slot praised Gomez’s determination, saying, “He tries to do everything to be with the team. It’s very hard for him to face another setback”.

Fan Reactions and Support

Fans have flooded social media with messages of support for Gomez. Many called the injury “heartbreaking,” noting his loyalty to Liverpool despite years of bad luck.

Others worry about the team’s title hopes. “We need everyone fit for the run-in,” one fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “Gomez’s absence could hurt us”.

Key Facts About Gomez’s Injury

Injury Type: Hamstring (same leg as December 2024 injury).
Recovery Time: Several weeks, possibly until May 2025.
Impact on Liverpool: Reduced defensive options during a critical title race.

What Arne Slot Said

Slot addressed Gomez’s situation in detail:

“Joe will miss large parts of the end of the season, but we expect him back in the final phase”.
“It’s a big blow for Joe and us. He worked so hard to come back”.

The manager also confirmed that forward Cody Gakpo will miss the Aston Villa game but could return for the Manchester City match.

Looking Ahead

Liverpool’s next match is against Aston Villa on February 19. A win would extend their lead at the top of the Premier League to 10 points. However, Slot warned that Villa Park is a “difficult” venue due to the team’s strong home record.

For Gomez, the focus is on recovery. Fans hope to see him back in a Liverpool shirt before the season ends .