Liverpool midfielder Thiago Alcantara was left in tears after an injury suffered in the warm-up at Wembley meant that he was ruled out of the Carabao Cup final against Chelsea.
Thiago was in line to start in the showpiece game but ended up having to be replaced by Naby Keita.
The latest injury setback is hugely frustrating for Thiago, who has spent a lot of time on the sidelines since he joined Liverpool in 2020.
MORE: EFL Cup final minute-by-minute analysis
The Liverpool star had to be consoled by team-mate Alisson after it was revealed that he wouldn't be able to play against Chelsea.
Heartbreaking 💔 pic.twitter.com/6tOTaSJtOP
— Anfield Watch (@AnfieldWatch) February 27, 2022
Thiago's injuries at Liverpool
Thiago's first absence at Liverpool came shortly after he joined the club from Bayern Munich in September 2020 as he missed four games due to coronavirus. That was followed by a knee injury suffered against Everton which ruled him out for 17 games.
The Spaniard didn't suffer any further injuries last season, but he has endured more frustration so far this campaign. For instance, a calf problem kept him out for ten matches between September and October. He then had another spell out, missing three games after contracting Covid-19 again.
Then he was out between late December and early February with a hip injury.
Someone placed a curse on Thiago to not start big matches for Liverpool. He’s now missed the game vs Man City, both league matches vs Chelsea, Spurs away, Man Utd away & now the League Cup final thru injury.
— Raj Chohan (@rajsinghchohan) February 27, 2022
Thiago's impressive performances this season
Thiago's frequent absences have been all the more frustrating given how impressive he has been for Liverpool this season when he has been fit.
Although he experienced some difficulties with regards to consistency during his maiden campaign at the club, Thiago has really stepped up this time around and has made a significant contribution with his performances, helping to create chances and dictate the tempo of play.
The Spaniard owns an 87% pass completion rate in Premier League play this season, and his xGBuildup (per 90) — the total expected goals of every possession Thiago is involved in minus his own shots and key passes — of 0.6 puts him second in the Premier League for all players with 15 or more appearances.
Liverpool will certainly hope that Thiago won't be out for too long on this occasion. Jurgen Klopp's side still have much to play for this season - they are six points behind Premier League leaders Manchester City with a game in hand, while in the Champions League they are 2-0 up against Inter Milan following the first leg of their Round of 16 tie. In addition, they are through to the Fifth Round of the FA Cup and will face Norwich at home in that competition.
Liverpool midfielder Thiago in tears after pre-match injury, shows Carabao Cup final still matters - Sporting News
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