Liverpool's Conor Bradley Faces Season-Ending Knee Injury Setback

Liverpool FC right-back Conor Bradley has suffered a significant knee injury during the closing stages of the team's 0-0 Premier League draw against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium last Thursday, ruling him out for the remainder of the 2025-26 season.[1][2][3]

Bradley, 22, collapsed off the ball in stoppage time while chasing play near the touchline, requiring a stretcher to leave the pitch. Initial fears of an ACL tear were alleviated by scans, which instead revealed extensive damage to ligaments and bone in his left knee. He underwent successful surgery shortly after, as confirmed by the club and his own social media update.[1][2][3][4][6]

In an official statement, Liverpool FC noted: “Bradley will undergo surgery in the coming days and then begin a period of rehabilitation at the AXA Training Centre. No timeframe is being placed on his return to playing at this stage.”[1][3] Bradley echoed this on Instagram, posting a defiant message: “A big blow but surgery is done so the comeback starts now 💪 It won’t be for a little while but I already can’t wait to get back playing for Liverpool and Northern Ireland. Thanks for all the support ❤️💚.”[4]

The injury sparked controversy when Arsenal's Gabriel Martinelli threw a ball at Bradley and attempted to shove him off the pitch amid a late push for a winner, later apologizing publicly and privately.[2][4] It's a major blow for head coach Arne Slot's squad, already missing teenage defender Giovanni Leoni (ACL, out until September 2026).[2][3]

Bradley will miss Northern Ireland's World Cup play-off against Italy in March, though a summer return for the World Cup remains possible if they qualify.[3][5] Liverpool has no plans for January right-back signings, relying on Jeremie Frimpong, Joe Gomez, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Curtis Jones as covers—avoiding panic buys per club policy.[5]

Bradley, who has battled injuries before, now targets pre-season fitness, showcasing resilience amid fan support.[4][5]

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