Pierre Sage Opens Up on Ismaila Sarr's Injury and Liverpool Transfer Interest

Pierre Sage, the Crystal Palace manager, has confirmed that Ismaila Sarr is sidelined due to a groin injury and not refusing to train in an attempt to force a move to Liverpool. The forward’s absence comes amid significant transfer interest from Anfield, with a reported £50 million offer, but Sage insists the player remains committed to the club.

Sarr’s Injury Clarified

Recent claims suggested Sarr might be protesting to push through a transfer, but Sage dismissed these notions. He explained that Sarr’s ongoing pain from a groin issue has kept him from team training sessions, requiring individual training instead. The manager emphasized patience in Sarr’s recovery process, 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."

Impact of Liverpool’s Interest

The 28-year-old missed both the Premier League opener against Everton and will also be absent for the upcoming fixture against Manchester City. Sage acknowledged how challenging it can be for a player to manage such attention from a club like Liverpool but remains confident that Sarr will respect the three years left 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 said.

Supporting Sarr Through Transfer Speculation

As the transfer window nears its close, Sage showed understanding for the pressure Sarr faces. He held private discussions with the forward to help maintain his focus despite ongoing links not just to Liverpool but also to Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal.

"I understand that for everybody to have this kind of contact is difficult, because you hesitate a lot," Sage admitted. "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 are racing against time to finalize their pursuit of Sarr before the summer transfer deadline. While Sage prepares for the winger's full recovery, the Reds must decide quickly whether to increase their bid or explore other attacking options to satisfy Andoni Iraola's demands.

• Crystal Palace vs Manchester City: 28 Aug 2026, 21:00
• Liverpool vs Nottingham Forest: 29 Aug 2026, 13:30