Former Liverpool star admits regret over move to Anfield | OneFootball

Former Liverpool Star Admits Regret Over Move to Anfield

Former Liverpool player Joe Cole has admitted that, with the benefit of hindsight, he regrets signing for the club in 2010. Cole’s brief and troubled spell at Anfield, which lasted just three years, has become a point of reflection for the former England international. As Liverpool’s squad continues to evolve, the struggles of new signings like Alexander Isak seem to echo the challenges Cole faced in his own career.

Joe Cole’s Liverpool Stint: A Bitter Disappointment

Cole joined Liverpool from Chelsea after winning the Premier League title in 2010. At the time, it was seen as a major coup for the Reds, who hoped the talented playmaker would provide the creative spark they were missing. However, despite his pedigree, Cole’s time at Anfield was far from successful. In just 42 appearances, the midfielder struggled to find his form, with injuries and inconsistent performances weighing heavily on his career.

In a candid conversation with LIFEJACKET, Cole shared his regret, saying: “If I’d had my time again, I’d have probably gone abroad somewhere and tried that, because I loved it. I loved that experience when I did do it. But it was a difficult time for the club and I genuinely, I was excited about joining.” His admission highlights the sense of disappointment that lingered throughout his brief time on Merseyside.

Alexander Isak: A Troubling Parallel?

As Liverpool moves forward under Arne Slot, some new arrivals are finding it difficult to settle in. One of the most talked-about figures is Alexander Isak, whose performances have been a cause for concern this season. Despite a hefty price tag following his transfer from Newcastle United, the Swedish striker has struggled to replicate his previous form, managing just one Premier League goal so far.

Photo: IMAGO

Isak’s future at Liverpool is uncertain, especially as Slot has been urged to reconsider his position on the field. The suggestion that Isak could be shifted to a different role indicates a lack of confidence in his current performance. The spotlight is now on him to prove he can adapt and fulfil the expectations placed upon him when he signed for the Reds.

Could Isak Face the Same Fate as Joe Cole?

For Joe Cole, his time at Liverpool was overshadowed by frustration, and his regrets have served as a warning to others. Could Isak be heading down the same path? While it’s early to draw definitive conclusions, there are concerning similarities between the two players’ situations. Cole’s prediction that Isak may struggle to cement his place in Liverpool’s starting line-up is becoming increasingly plausible.

Even though Isak has shown flashes of brilliance, his injury record and inability to find consistency may ultimately hamper his Liverpool career. Cole himself has suggested that Isak’s position at the club may be in jeopardy, particularly with Hugo Ekitike, Liverpool’s leading striker, showing far greater promise. Ekitike’s impressive tally of seven Premier League goals already this season demonstrates the quality the Reds need up front, leaving Isak to wonder if he will ever break into the first XI with the same regularity.

Can Alexander Isak Turn His Liverpool Career Around?

Despite the challenges he’s faced, it’s not all doom and gloom for Isak. A change in position or a tweak in Slot’s tactical approach could see the Swedish striker regain his confidence. However, for now, the spotlight remains on him to prove he can contribute to Liverpool’s ambitions in the 2025/26 season. The club will be hoping that Isak can avoid the same fate as Joe Cole, whose time at Anfield is often remembered as a missed opportunity.