Liverpool’s British-record signing Alexander Isak could make a dramatic return to action in Saturday’s FA Cup quarter-final against Manchester City, just 101 days after suffering a horror leg fracture.

The 26-year-old Sweden striker, who joined the Reds from Newcastle United for £125m last summer, has been sidelined since late December following a clinical challenge during a victory over Tottenham. After undergoing surgery on his ankle and a fractured fibula, Isak returned to full team training on Thursday.

Head coach Arne Slot confirmed on Friday that while Isak is in contention for “a few minutes” at the Etihad Stadium, the threat of extra time makes his inclusion a tactical gamble.

The ‘101-Day’ Recovery

Isak’s debut season at Anfield has been a stop-start affair, dominated first by a protracted transfer saga and then by the long road to recovery. Before his injury, the striker had netted three goals in 16 appearances.

“It would not make any sense to start him tomorrow,” Slot told reporters. “But physically, he is in a much better place now than when he first arrived. Next season, after a full pre-season, we can expect even more from him.”

The ‘Salah Farewell’ Begins

While the focus is on Isak’s return, the spotlight remains firmly on Mohamed Salah. The Egyptian forward is fit to face City in what will be his first match since officially announcing he will leave Liverpool this summer.

Salah’s departure marks the end of a trophy-laden nine-year era that delivered two Premier League titles and a Champions League trophy. When asked if the impending exit would provide extra motivation, Slot remained pragmatic.

“For Mo, it doesn’t matter if he is leaving or staying,” Slot said. “He has always given everything he had, and he will do that until the end of the season. Expecting more from him just because he is leaving isn’t realistic—he already gave his all.”

Analysis: A Tale of Two Strikers

For Liverpool, the timing of Isak’s return is critical as they navigate the final months of the campaign without first-choice goalkeeper Alisson, who remains out until the season’s end.

The transition from the “Salah Era” to the “Isak Era” is now officially underway. By reintegrating their £125m investment just as their greatest modern goalscorer prepares to depart, Liverpool are attempting to prove that their recruitment strategy can survive the loss of an icon.

Saturday’s clash at the Etihad isn’t just an FA Cup tie; it is a glimpse into a future where Isak must shoulder the burden of being the club’s new offensive focal point.