Crystal Palace Manager Pierre Sage Opens Up on Ismaila Sarr’s Injury Amid Liverpool Transfer Interest
Pierre Sage, manager of Crystal Palace, has confirmed that Ismaila Sarr is sidelined due to a groin injury rather than refusing to train amid strong transfer interest from Liverpool. The £50 million bid from Anfield has complicated the forward's situation, but Sage insists the player's absence from training is genuine and not a tactic to force a move.
Sarr's Status and Liverpool's Approach
Following the collapse of Liverpool's pursuit of Yankuba Minteh, the Merseyside club turned their attention towards Sarr. Despite rumors suggesting the winger was trying to push for a transfer by skipping training sessions, Sage firmly denied this. He explained that Sarr is experiencing pain from a groin injury and is currently undergoing individual training as part of his recovery.
"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," Sage said.
Impact on Upcoming Matches and Contract Situation
The 28-year-old missed Palace’s Premier League opener against Everton and will also be absent from the upcoming game against Manchester City. Sage acknowledged the challenge for Sarr to stay focused amid constant speculation, especially after Liverpool made a substantial offer. Nonetheless, the manager expects the winger to honor the remaining three years of his contract at Selhurst Park.
"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," Sage added.
Support Amid Transfer Rumors
As the transfer window nears its end, Sage showed understanding toward Sarr’s position, knowing the pressure such rumors can create. The manager held private talks with the player this week to ensure he stays positive despite links to Liverpool and Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal.
"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," Sage commented.
What Lies Ahead for Liverpool and Sarr?
Liverpool face a deadline race to persuade Crystal Palace to sell Ismaila Sarr before Monday’s transfer deadline. Meanwhile, Sage focuses on Sarr’s full recovery while keeping the player motivated. The Reds must decide quickly whether to improve their offer or explore other attacking options to meet coach Andoni Iraola’s demands.
- Premier League Fixtures:
- Crystal Palace vs Manchester City: 28 Aug 2026, 21:00
- Liverpool vs Nottingham Forest: 29 Aug 2026, 13:30
