Alexander Isak set for debut against Atletico Madrid | OneFootball

Liverpool’s record signing Alexander Isak ( 25) could make his long-awaited debut on Wednesday night as the Reds open their Champions League campaign against Atletico Madrid at Anfield.

Head coach Arne Slot confirmed the £125m striker will be in the matchday squad but warned supporters not to expect a full 90 minutes, as reported by Sky Sports. “There is definitely a chance because he is in the squad,” Slot said. “But I can say 100 per cent he will not play 90 minutes. All the rest, you will see.”

Isak, who joined from Newcastle on Deadline Day in a British-record deal, was absent from Sunday’s win at Burnley. He has trained this week, though Slot emphasised that regaining fitness remains the forward’s immediate challenge.

The Sweden international missed much of pre-season amid a protracted dispute with Newcastle and has played only 18 minutes of competitive football this season, featuring briefly for his country.

“His biggest challenge is getting fit after missing out on four months of proper team sessions,” Slot explained. “He doesn’t have to prove to anyone that he can score goals in the Premier League, he has already shown that. But the next step is reaching the point where he can press, play three times a week, and influence matches the way we know he can.”

For Liverpool, who have started strongly under Slot but face sterner challenges ahead, Isak’s integration could prove pivotal, as the Dutchman’s side faces a tough upcoming schedule.

GFN | Finn Entwistle