Liverpool star slammed after ‘anonymous’ performance vs Nottingham Forest | OneFootball

Liverpool Struggles Highlighted in Forest Shock

Liverpool’s 3-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest at Anfield sent a jolt through the Premier League weekend, a result that not only underscored the unpredictability of the campaign but also sharpened the spotlight on several underperforming players. Arne Slot, who guided Liverpool to the 2024-25 title, endured one of the most difficult afternoons of his tenure as Forest arrived in 19th place and walked away with a comfortable win.

For Liverpool supporters, the disappointment was intensified by the display of Alexander Isak, the club’s record £125 million signing, who struggled to influence a match that demanded leadership and potency from the forward line.

Isak’s Misfiring Display Under Scrutiny

Restored to the starting line up after a period of rotation, Isak was given a prime chance to reassert himself. Slot opted for the Swede ahead of Hugo Ekitike, a decision that seemed designed to give the striker the platform to impose himself on a Forest side fighting for survival. Instead, the opposite unfolded.

When Isak departed in the 68th minute, Sky Sports reporter Laura Hunter summarised his performance bluntly, stating: “Robertson and Chiesa being readied. Isak’s afternoon is over. He’s been completely anonymous again.”

Photo: IMAGO

Statistics Reflect a Difficult Afternoon

The numbers from the match illustrated the depth of Isak’s struggles. According to Sofascore, the striker failed to win any of his seven duels, completed only six passes from eight attempts and did not register a single shot on target. Fifteen touches across more than an hour on the pitch painted a stark picture of a player unable to keep Liverpool’s attacking rhythm alive.

For context, Isak had previously scored in each of his four Premier League games against Nottingham Forest, making this performance even more surprising. Slot had offered him the opportunity to build momentum after an interrupted pre-season and a groin issue, yet instead of igniting his season, this display has ignited debate.

Pressure Mounting for a Response

Liverpool’s defeat will undoubtedly spark wider tactical analysis, especially with a crucial Champions League outing against PSV Eindhoven on the horizon. Ekitike will feel encouraged by the contrast in performances and may now be in line for a recall.

As for Isak, nobody within the club will be making rash judgements. It would be premature to label any big signing a misstep at this stage of his Liverpool career. However, elite players respond to adversity, and the expectation at Anfield is unforgiving.