The international fixtures at the end of September 2026 left fans of England's elite clubs with plenty to worry about. The standout moments of the day included a dramatic comeback win for Spain over England, alongside troubling updates from the treatment rooms of leading Premier League teams.
Spanish triumph at Wembley and Dani Olmo's cheeky dig
England faced a painful defeat at home, losing 3-2 to Spain after squandering an early lead. While the final score was disappointing, it was the antics of Spanish midfielder Dani Olmo that caught the attention on social media.
Post-match, the Barcelona player shared a series of photos on Snapchat from Wembley, including one that showcased him dominating Jude Bellingham; the Real Madrid and England midfielder was left on his knees as Olmo carried the ball away. The image, posted without a caption, underscored Olmo's dominance in their personal battles, with him winning 11 of the last 12 official encounters between the two players at both club and international levels.
Concern at Manchester United: Patrick Dorgu's injury
Defender Patrick Dorgu, who represents Denmark and Manchester United, was forced to leave the pitch during a Nations League match against Wales at Parken Stadium. The 21-year-old, who had started the fixture, reported discomfort and was substituted. This news is particularly worrying for the Red Devils as Dorgu just recently returned from a serious hamstring injury that had sidelined him for several weeks this year. A thorough medical evaluation upon his return to the club will determine the extent of his latest setback and the expected recovery timeline.
Double blow for Liverpool: injury concerns for Cody Gakpo and Alexander Isak
For Liverpool, the current international break has turned into a series of medical assessments:
Cody Gakpo requested a substitution during the Netherlands' away match against Serbia in Belgrade. The forward, starting alongside Krisenciyo Summerville and Mex Meerdink, signalled to the coaching staff that he could not continue due to sudden discomfort. Just days earlier, Gakpo's stunning late strike salvaged a draw for the Dutch against Germany (1-1). The Merseyside club is hopeful this early exit was a precaution.
Alexander Isak departed the Sweden camp early, returning to Liverpool’s training centre in Kirkby. The forward had scored the opener and played the full 90 minutes in Sweden's 2-1 victory over Romania, but emerged in the mixed zone post-match with a bloodied toe after a rough challenge. Isak remarked that the pain faded after the initial shock, yet the Swedish medical team decided to withdraw him from the remaining three matches of the break. With approximately two weeks to recover, Isak will be aiming to be fit for the crucial Premier League clash against Manchester City on October 11.
