Crystal Palace's Pierre Sage Confirms Ismaila Sarr Injury Amid Liverpool Transfer Interest

Pierre Sage, the manager of Crystal Palace, has clarified that Ismaila Sarr is currently sidelined due to a groin injury, not because he is trying to push through a transfer to Liverpool. Despite strong interest from the Merseyside club, Sage insists the forward’s absence from training is health-related.

Sarr’s Condition and Training Status

The 28-year-old winger missed the Premier League opener against Everton and will also be unavailable for the upcoming match against Manchester City. Sage explained that Sarr is undergoing individual training because of the pain caused by his groin injury, and he needs time to recover fully.

"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.

Addressing Liverpool’s £50 Million Interest

Liverpool recently submitted a £50 million offer for Sarr after their deal for Yankuba Minteh fell through. Sage acknowledged the difficulty this creates for the player but believes Sarr will respect the three years remaining on 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 stated.

Manager Shows Sympathy Over Transfer Speculation

Sage spoke privately with Sarr to keep his spirits up amid the ongoing transfer rumors linking him to both Liverpool and Saudi Arabia’s Al-Hilal. He sympathizes with the uncertainty the player faces as the summer transfer window nears its close.

"I understand that for everybody to have this kind of contact is difficult, because you hesitate a lot," Sage added. "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?

With the transfer deadline approaching rapidly, Liverpool must act quickly if they want to secure Sarr’s signature. Sage remains focused on the player’s rehabilitation while the Reds decide whether to improve their offer or explore other attacking options to satisfy coach Andoni Iraola.

• Premier League Fixture: Crystal Palace vs Manchester City, August 28, 2026, 21:00
• Premier League Fixture: Liverpool vs Nottingham Forest, August 29, 2026, 13:30