Alexander Isak admits to fitness struggles since record-breaking Liverpool move | OneFootball

Liverpool Hope for Isak Revival Amid Ongoing Fitness Struggles

Isak’s Challenging Start at Anfield

Liverpool’s bold move to bring Alexander Isak to Anfield was intended to signal a new era in their attack, yet the early signs have been far less convincing. The Swedish forward fought tirelessly to complete what he considered a dream transfer, even damaging the heroic reputation he once enjoyed at Newcastle. The hope was that such determination would translate into a rapid impact under Arne Slot, but the start has been littered with interruptions, frustration and a lack of momentum.

Isak has scored only once in eight appearances, and the pressure around Liverpool’s new No. 9 has intensified. Each time he appears close to rhythm, a fitness setback seems to intervene. From the moment he arrived, it has felt like one difficulty followed another, robbing him of the consistency that a striker requires.

Club and Country Offering Little Stability

Sweden’s recent struggles have only compounded the challenges of his Liverpool adaptation. A bruising 4-1 defeat to Switzerland extended their winless run to five matches, and Isak was deemed unready to start due to his lingering issues. He featured only in the final half hour before speaking honestly to the Swedish press.

He admitted that his season “hasn’t been optimal” and expanded on his frustrations by saying, “when I’m on the field, I don’t give myself any excuses. I always want to play my game and perform. But yes, it’s hard to be away [injured] and not be able to help and contribute. Now I’m back and I’m positive.”

His comments reflected a player aware of the demands placed on him. Isak added, “there’s not much that’s easy in football. But with experience you learn to deal with things. That’s how it is with injuries and all that. You learn to deal with it and get back on track the right way.”

Photo: IMAGO

Sweden’s Nations League performance has at least secured a play off route to the World Cup, although their form offers little reassurance. For Isak, both club and country require a level of sharpness that only continuity on the pitch can restore.

Path Forward for Liverpool’s No. 9

Liverpool remain confident that the striker they pursued so persistently will reveal his full potential once fitness stabilises. Slot values his intelligence in build up play and his ability to link movements in the final third. While the goals have not yet come, his overall contributions have not been poor. He presses with intent, holds the ball well and moves into pockets of space with awareness, but explosive moments have been limited.

The team need him to be more than promising. They require a consistent force at the tip of their attack, especially with a demanding schedule ahead. The sharpness should be returning by now, and it is reasonable for expectations to rise once domestic football resumes.

Importance of Sustained Fitness in the Months Ahead

Isak’s ability to remain available may define Liverpool’s season. The winter fixture list offers little forgiveness, and there will be no time to reintegrate repeatedly from minor setbacks. If he can stay fit, his finishing instincts and movement will almost certainly lead to goals. Should the cycle of niggles continue, however, progress will remain slow.

Availability, more than anything else, will determine whether he becomes the transformative forward Liverpool believed they were signing.