Crystal Palace Manager Pierre Sage Confirms Ismaila Sarr Injury Amid Liverpool Transfer Interest
Pierre Sage, the manager of Crystal Palace, has confirmed that Ismaila Sarr is sidelined due to injury, dismissing claims that the forward is refusing to train as a tactic to push for a transfer to Liverpool. Despite the significant £50 million bid from Liverpool, Sage insists that Sarr's current absence is linked to a groin problem rather than any transfer-related issues.
Sarr's Injury and Training Status
Following a failed deal for Yankuba Minteh, Liverpool turned their attention to Sarr. Rumors had circulated that the winger was deliberately avoiding training to force a move. Sage clarified this by stating:
"Ismaila Sarr is injured. He is in pain with his groin - that’s why you didn’t see him [train] with us today. He is in individual training because he is really in pain with his groin. But we’ll prepare him, he needs time."
The 28-year-old missed Crystal Palace's Premier League opener against Everton and will also be absent for the upcoming match against Manchester City.
Manager Comments on Transfer Speculation
Sage recognized how challenging it can be for a player when linked with a club like Liverpool. Even with the strong interest and ongoing speculation, Sage believes Sarr will remain committed to his current contract, which still has three years left to run. He remarked:
"It’s always difficult for a player when your name is associated with a club like Liverpool. For the moment, the most important thing is to understand the player is not able to play and is in treatment, and what happens with his potential future is really far from me."
Support Amid Transfer Rumors
As the transfer window edges closer to its deadline, Sage expressed empathy towards Sarr, who must deal with widespread attention from both Liverpool and Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal. The manager held private discussions to keep Sarr's focus strong despite the distractions. Sage shared:
"I understand that for everybody to have this kind of contact is difficult, because you hesitate a lot. But for the moment, he is with us. He is under contract. He is injured and maybe you can make a link between his injury and the situation. But for me, he is honest and I have no problem with that."
What Lies Ahead for Liverpool and Sarr?
Liverpool now face a pressing deadline to convince Crystal Palace to sell Sarr before the summer transfer window closes on Monday. While Sage prepares for the forward's recovery at Selhurst Park, Liverpool must quickly decide whether to improve their offer or explore other attacking options to satisfy manager Andoni Iraola.
- Premier League Match: Crystal Palace vs Manchester City, August 28, 2026, 21:00
- Premier League Match: Liverpool vs Nottingham Forest, August 29, 2026, 13:30
