Joe Gomez, Liverpool’s defender, has left the club’s pre-season tour of Asia early due to a minor Achilles injury. After taking part in the first part of the tour, including starting in the summer wins over Preston (3-1) and Stoke City (5-0), Gomez was ruled out of the friendly against AC Milan in Hong Kong and was sent back to Merseyside for treatment and assessment. Liverpool’s head coach, Arne Slot, explained that the decision was made to allow Gomez to recover in more ideal conditions and hopefully return to the team soon. Gomez’s injury status will be monitored closely at Liverpool’s AXA Training Centre in England.

With Gomez’s absence, Liverpool will rely on other defenders, with Virgil van Dijk as the only natural centre-back in the squad for the Asian leg. It is expected that midfielder Ryan Gravenberch will partner Van Dijk in central defense for upcoming matches. Gomez’s setback adds to Liverpool’s defensive challenges ahead of the new season, prompting speculation about the club’s need for reinforcement in the center-back position during the transfer window.

Meanwhile, Liverpool's tour squad already missed out on forward Federico Chiesa, who was left out due to a minor fitness issue, while new signing Hugo Ekitike has joined the group after his recent transfer.

The Reds continue their tour with another friendly scheduled against Yokohama F. Marinos in Japan. The club and fans hope Gomez’s injury is minor enough to allow a quick recovery, so he can contribute in the coming season.

Hugo Ekitike Attends Liverpool’s Open Training Session | Pre-Season Tour Vlog – DAY 3 | Hong Kong	Liverpool In Hong Kong – Tour Diary Part Two: TAW Special	Liverpool In Hong Kong – Tour Diary Part Three: TAW Special

Source: Liverpool’s pre-season update reports and manager comments as of July 26, 2025.


PP