Swedish media rate Alexander Isak’s performance against Switzerland | OneFootball

Liverpool Striker Alexander Isak Shows Progress on International Duty for Sweden

Signs of Improvement for Liverpool’s No. 9

Alexander Isak has endured a stop-start beginning to life at Liverpool following his deadline day move from Newcastle United. Arriving without a full pre-season, his initial weeks under Arne Slot have been spent building fitness rather than breaking records.

Liverpool supporters have seen flashes rather than full performances, but there are growing signs that Isak is beginning to settle. His first assist in red came against Chelsea, and Friday night’s international outing provided another promising step. The forward completed 90 minutes for the first time since May, captaining Sweden against Switzerland in their World Cup qualifying campaign.

The result was disappointing, with Sweden falling to a 2-0 defeat in Solna, but Isak’s personal display earned acclaim in his homeland.

Positive Reviews Amid National Struggles

The Swedish media were quick to acknowledge his efforts, even as frustration mounted around the team’s qualification hopes. Expressen praised the Liverpool striker, describing him as “quick in the flesh – and in the head.” That verdict carries weight considering recent concerns over his match sharpness.

Fotboll Skanlen highlighted one moment that encapsulated his determination. Isak carried the ball half the length of the pitch before squaring for Lucas Bergvall. The Tottenham midfielder could not finish the move, denying Isak what would have been a deserved assist.

There was further misfortune when he struck the post in the second half, yet the signs were encouraging. Energy, invention and authority were all present. With the captain’s armband on his sleeve, Isak looked like Sweden’s standout performer.

Photo IMAGO

Nearing Full Fitness Ahead of Liverpool Return

Fitness has been the main barrier to seeing the full version of Isak in Liverpool colours. Arne Slot has been patient, stating before the break that his striker’s effective pre-season would only be complete after this set of international fixtures.

That prediction appears well judged. A full 90 minutes suggests that the foundation has finally been laid. Ideally he will manage his load in Sweden’s next fixture, but as long as there are no setbacks, he should return to Liverpool ready to contribute at full capacity.

Slot has offered only glimpses of how he intends to structure his attack with Isak alongside Hugo Ekitike and Mohamed Salah. Those combinations are likely to evolve once the Swede is operating at peak rhythm.

Switzerland Defeat Masks Forward Momentum

For Sweden, it was another setback in a difficult qualifying campaign. For Liverpool, it was reassurance that their investment is edging towards reward. Confidence is building, even if the statistics have yet to reflect it.

Isak may not have scored yet in the Premier League for Liverpool, to the delight of some Newcastle observers, but his form is trending upward. Finishing will come once rhythm returns. What matters most at this stage is that sharpness, balance and decision making are surfacing once again.

The next goal feels close. More importantly, the next performance in red should arrive with renewed energy rather than hesitation.