Liverpool have been dealt a major setback after right-back Conor Bradley was ruled out for the remainder of the 2025/26 season due to a significant knee injury, the club has confirmed.
The 22-year-old Northern Ireland international sustained the injury during Liverpool’s goalless draw with Arsenal on Thursday and was forced off late in the match after landing awkwardly. Medical assessments later revealed damage to the knee that will require surgery, effectively ending his season.
In a statement, Liverpool said Bradley will undergo an operation before beginning a rehabilitation programme at the club’s AXA Training Centre. The club, however, did not provide a specific timeline for his return to competitive football.
Bradley has been one of Liverpool’s standout performers this season, earning praise for his defensive discipline, attacking runs, and work rate, particularly in high-intensity matches. His absence is expected to impact Liverpool’s defensive options as the club continues its push across domestic competitions.
The injury also casts doubt over Bradley’s availability for Northern Ireland’s upcoming World Cup play-off fixtures, dealing a potential blow to the national team’s preparations ahead of crucial international matches.
Liverpool head coach Arne Slot will now be forced to reshuffle his defence, with players such as Jeremie Frimpong and Joe Gomez expected to provide cover at right-back for the remainder of the campaign.
Bradley’s injury sparked controversy during the Arsenal match after an opposing player attempted to usher him off the pitch while he was down. The incident later drew an apology, with the player admitting he was unaware of the seriousness of the injury.
Liverpool supporters have since taken to social media to wish the young defender a speedy recovery, as the club braces for the final stretch of the season without one of its most promising talents.
