Liverpool have been handed another injury concern after Jérémy Jacquet was ruled out of France’s final international fixture against Belgium because of a hamstring problem.
The 21-year-old centre-back had been expected to make his third consecutive start for France after making an impressive senior debut against Belgium and then producing another strong performance against Italy. Instead, he was left completely off the matchday squad for Monday’s meeting with Belgium.
Reports from France say Jacquet felt a strain in his left hamstring. The French staff decided not to take any unnecessary risks with the Liverpool defender, describing his absence as a precautionary measure.
Manchester United defender Leny Yoro was handed his senior France debut in Jacquet’s place.
Why Liverpool are concerned
The timing is particularly unfortunate for Liverpool because Jacquet has quickly become an important part of Andoni Iraola’s defence.
After joining Liverpool from Rennes during the summer, Jacquet has made a strong start to life at Anfield. He has started six of the seven matches he has played for Liverpool this season, forming a promising partnership with captain Virgil van Dijk.
His performances have also earned him significant praise from France manager Zinedine Zidane, particularly after his display against Italy. Zidane highlighted Jacquet’s courage in stepping out to challenge opponents and his quality in duels.
Liverpool will now be hoping that the hamstring problem is only minor.
Man City clash adds to the concern
The Reds are due to face Manchester City on Sunday, meaning there is limited time for Jacquet to recover and prove his fitness.
Liverpool are already dealing with several injury concerns from the international break. Alexander Isak and Cody Gakpo have both returned early from international duty after picking up injuries. Gakpo’s ankle problem is considered the more serious of the two, while Isak’s injury has reportedly been described as minor.
If Jacquet cannot recover in time, Joe Gomez could potentially come into central defence, although Liverpool will first assess Jacquet when he returns to the club for further tests.
There is at least one encouraging sign: Jacquet was reportedly seen applauding the crowd after France’s victory over Belgium, which may suggest that his absence was more precautionary than evidence of a serious injury. However, Liverpool still need medical assessments before his availability for Manchester City can be confirmed.
Jacquet’s remarkable rise
Jacquet’s injury comes after an impressive few months for the young Frenchman.
His 2025/26 season at Rennes was disrupted by a shoulder injury, while his preparations for the new campaign were also affected by a knee problem. Liverpool nevertheless completed his move from Rennes, and he has quickly established himself in Iraola’s team.
He then received his first France senior call-up and made his debut against Belgium on September 28, playing the entire match as France won 1–0.
Now Liverpool will wait anxiously for the results of his assessment to determine whether he can continue his impressive partnership with Van Dijk against Manchester City.
