'Right now they are both injured' - Liverpool's Isak and Gakpo could miss Man City clash

Both forwards returned early from international duty after picking up injuries. Isak has a thigh problem, while Gakpo suffered an ankle injury with the Netherlands.

Iraola confirmed that neither player is currently fit, leaving Liverpool facing a potential shortage of attacking options with Hugo Ekitike already sidelined by a long-term Achilles injury.

"I think Alex Isak and Cody Gakpo both have had to leave the national teams with injuries," Iraola told beIN SPORTS.

"Now it's a matter of if they are going to recover in time to help us in the next game or not. But right now they are both injured."

Liverpool have made an unbeaten start under Iraola, winning four and drawing three of their opening matches. However, their form has not been as convincing as their results suggest.

City arrive at Anfield in strong form and have been particularly dangerous in attack, making Sunday's meeting a major test for Liverpool.

"They've won all of them, so it makes a big difference in their side," Iraola said.

"I think we need to be very, very good if we want to beat City because they've been especially offensively scoring a lot of goals lately."

Iraola also pointed to improvements in Liverpool's defending as a reason for optimism.

"We know the names that are very dangerous. But I think also we've shown good defensive improvements lately and I hope we can," he added.

READ MORE: 'I'm in great shape' - Harry Kane sets sights on Ronaldo's goalscoring record