Liverpool manager Arne Slot has issued a stern message to Alexander Isak amid growing scrutiny surrounding the striker’s early performances at Anfield. The Swedish international, who arrived from Newcastle United in a record-breaking £125 million deal, was one of the club’s headline signings of the summer. Yet his start has been far from what fans expected.
Since joining the Reds, Isak has managed just one goal — scored against Southampton in the Carabao Cup — and one assist in six appearances across all competitions. While the forward’s work rate and movement have drawn some praise, his overall impact has been minimal. For a player signed with such high expectations, supporters are already eager to see more.
Initially, Liverpool’s coaching staff attributed Isak’s slow start to a lack of match fitness. Having arrived later than most of the squad in the summer, he was still adjusting to the team’s tactical system and the physical demands of Arne Slot’s high-intensity style. However, with several weeks of training now under his belt, that reasoning may no longer apply.
Speaking ahead of Liverpool’s upcoming match against Manchester United, Slot made it clear that the time has come to judge Isak on merit. “Alexander Isak has now had around five to six weeks of pre-season, so in terms of fitness, he’s close to where he should be. From this point, we can judge him properly,” the manager told reporters.
The timing of Slot’s statement is significant. Liverpool are desperate to rediscover their form after a difficult run of results, and the pressure on their attack is intensifying. The emergence of Hugo Ekitike has only added to the competition. The French striker, signed from Eintracht Frankfurt, has impressed both in training and in limited game time, showing confidence and composure in front of goal. His performances have quickly made him a fan favorite, with many calling for him to be given more opportunities.
For Isak, the challenge is clear: he must now prove why Liverpool made such a significant investment in him. As one of the most expensive players in Premier League history, expectations are enormous. The upcoming clash with Manchester United at Anfield presents the perfect stage for him to silence critics and win over supporters. A commanding display — and perhaps a decisive goal — could completely shift the narrative around his start to life on Merseyside.
Slot’s message to Isak can be interpreted as both a challenge and a vote of confidence. The Dutch coach believes in the striker’s talent but wants to see it translate into consistent performances. With Liverpool aiming to climb back into title contention, every match carries weight, and Isak’s role in leading the line could prove crucial.
Ultimately, this period may define Alexander Isak’s Liverpool career. The excuses have faded, the competition is fierce, and the expectations remain sky-high. Now, it’s up to Isak to respond — not with words, but with goals.
