Seven stars who could be absent in the Manchester City vs Liverpool showdown

The headline clash between Manchester City and Liverpool in the FA Cup quarter-finals may be missing several prominent figures.

Manchester City vs Liverpool clash lacking stars

Manager Arne Slot is awaiting final updates on the fitness of Liverpool players ahead of the crucial encounter with Manchester City in the FA Cup quarter-finals. The Reds will march to the Etihad Stadium on Saturday afternoon, amid uncertainty over their full available squad against the reigning League Cup champions.

In defense, Liverpool's right-back had previously worried fans by leaving the pitch while playing for the Netherlands national team in a midweek friendly against Ecuador, shortly after coming on as a substitute. However, subsequent tests revealed no serious injury, and he rejoined full team training on Thursday.

Another positive update comes from Mohamed Salah, as the Egyptian forward also participated in the training session. Previously, he missed the Premier League loss to Brighton two weeks ago due to injury and was unable to join the national team during the recent international break.

Another notable return is Alexander Isak, who has been absent for over three months following ankle surgery, including a fibula fracture sustained in a collision with Tottenham defender Micky van de Ven before Christmas. Although he has resumed training, Liverpool are likely not to risk using the Swedish striker too early.

On the other side, goalkeeper Alisson Becker is definitely absent due to a hamstring injury that has kept him out of the last two matches. There is still no specific timeline for his return.

Additionally, Conor Bradley will miss the rest of the season after knee surgery, while young center-back Giovanni Leoni is expected to return only next summer following anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) surgery in September. Midfielder Wataru Endo is also recovering from ankle surgery performed in February.

For Manchester City, center-backs Josko Gvardiol and Ruben Dias are confirmed absent, while John Stones is also unlikely to recover in time for this match.