Diogo Jota Injury: Progress and Potential Return Date

Diogo Jota has faced a turbulent 2024/25 campaign, marred by injuries that have kept him sidelined for significant periods. The Portuguese forward, known for his clinical finishing, pressing abilities, and versatile playstyle, hasn’t started a Premier League match since October. His recent injury concerns have cast doubt over his involvement in upcoming fixtures for Liverpool. Here’s the latest on Jota’s fitness and his potential return to action.

What Injury Does Diogo Jota Have?

Diogo Jota has endured multiple injuries throughout his Liverpool career, with the most recent setback occurring after his return from the bench in Liverpool’s top-of-the-table clash with Nottingham Forest. In that match, Jota made an immediate impact, scoring within 22 seconds of entering the field, but was soon sidelined again with a fresh injury concern. Liverpool manager Arne Slot confirmed that Jota experienced discomfort after the game, forcing him to miss training ahead of the upcoming match against Brentford.

When Will Diogo Jota Return from Injury?

Slot provided an update on Jota’s condition, revealing that the forward is a major doubt for Liverpool’s upcoming fixture against Brentford. During his pre-match press conference, Slot stated:
“There is no doubt about the fact Jota is an important player for us, but he wasn’t on the training ground yesterday so that means we have to see today where he is. So, it is not sure he will be available for tomorrow. We have to wait and see today.”

Slot added:
“It will be a struggle to have him on the pitch maybe on Saturday, but we are hoping to see him on the pitch in the near future again.”

Liverpool have struggled in their last two Premier League games and are keen to have Jota available for the challenging west London trip.

Who Could Replace Diogo Jota for Liverpool?

Liverpool have a number of attacking options to step in during Jota’s absence. Luis Diaz, who started against Forest, is also dealing with illness and is doubtful for the Brentford game. Slot mentioned:
“I assume he [Diaz] is [fine]. Yesterday he was not allowed [to train] because he had a bit of a sore throat, but I assume he will be training with us today.”

If Diaz isn’t available, Darwin Nunez, who was suspended midweek, could return to lead the line. Nunez scored a memorable chip at the Gtech Community Stadium in his last visit and provides a reliable option. Additionally, 19-year-old Jayden Danns, who scored in the FA Cup and celebrated his birthday recently, could be considered for inclusion as an attacking option, with a possible loan move still under consideration.