Journalist: Liverpool duo must improve under Arne Slot next season | OneFootball

Liverpool Need More From Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak Under Arne Slot

A revealing segment on the Anfield Index podcast saw Dave Davis and Lewis Steele turn their attention to two of Liverpool’s biggest investments, Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak. With Arne Slot preparing for a crucial third season, the expectation is clear, both players must deliver far more.

Big Money Signings Yet to Deliver

Steele did not soften the assessment of their first campaign. “This is a massive reason why Liverpool have been so bad this season,” he said, directly linking underperformance to the struggles of Wirtz and Isak.

The context matters. These were marquee arrivals, with Steele recalling the initial optimism, “when they signed both of them, we’re all sat there thinking, ‘wow, they’re going to breeze it this year because they are dream targets.’” Instead, the output has fallen short of expectations.

Despite flashes of quality, consistency has been missing. Steele pointed out that Wirtz “has shown glimpses… but then he’ll just completely vanish in the next match,” highlighting the uneven nature of his performances.

Florian Wirtz Must Find Consistency

For Wirtz, adaptation has been part of the story, but patience has limits. Steele acknowledged the adjustment period, noting, “he’s had all year now to bulk up to the Premier League,” yet the next step must come quickly.

The concern is not talent, but influence. Steele compared him unfavourably in key moments, stating, “you don’t really see Wirtz take the game by the scruff of the neck.” For a player expected to dictate attacking play, that absence is significant.

Next season demands a shift. Steele was clear, “you’d want a lot more from him next season definitely in terms of numbers and overall performances.” Goals, assists, and control in big matches are no longer optional extras, they are requirements.

Alexander Isak Fitness and Form in Focus

Isak’s situation is more complex, shaped by fitness issues and a disrupted start. Steele explained, “he’s obviously missed four months of the season, but before that he was pretty bad.”

The root of the problem was clear in Steele’s view, “he came to Liverpool unfit. He’s never really looked over 50% fit.” That lack of sharpness has defined his campaign and limited his impact.

The contrast with previous performances is stark. Steele reflected on earlier displays, saying, “I was like, who is this guy? Because I’ve not seen that player play for Liverpool.” It underlines how far Isak has been from his expected level.

Photo: IMAGO

Pressure to Deliver Next Season

The financial outlay raises the stakes. Steele framed it bluntly, “200 plus million, you’d need a lot more from them, too.” That expectation will only intensify as Liverpool look to compete at the highest level again.

Targets have already been set internally, with Steele suggesting, “you’d want Isak to be hitting 15 goals next season at the very least” and Wirtz “to be chipping in with goals and getting assists.”

There is still belief that both can turn things around. Steele noted, “with a full preseason under their belts… I think they two can have a very special season.” However, potential must now translate into production.

For Liverpool and Arne Slot, the equation is simple. If Wirtz and Isak rise to expectations, the team’s trajectory changes. If not, the questions will only grow louder.