“He’s not ready” – Liverpool handed Alexander Isak fitness concern | OneFootball

Liverpool Wait for Isak Revival as Potter Manages His Minutes

Isak’s Slow Start at Liverpool

Liverpool supporters hoped Alexander Isak would arrive as a transformative figure, a striker capable of reshaping Arne Slot’s attacking plans after his high profile move in September. Instead, the early months of his Anfield career have been overshadowed by disrupted preparation, fitness setbacks and the reality that a record signing sometimes needs more than expectation to settle. His determination to join Liverpool, which led to strained relations with Newcastle, underlined his ambition, yet it also intensified scrutiny when the goals did not flow.

A solitary pre-season spent on his own schedule left him behind the rest of the squad, and a groin injury in October halted what little momentum he had. Liverpool knew patience would be required, but the desire to see their No. 9 take centre stage has only grown stronger with each passing fixture.

His recent inclusion in Sweden’s squad suggested progress. Graham Potter’s arrival as Sweden manager brought renewed optimism, with the national team boss stating confidently that Isak had turned a corner, describing him as fit for crucial matches against Switzerland and Slovenia. That declaration briefly lifted spirits around Anfield.

Photo: IMAGO

Potter’s Latest Update Brings Fresh Concern

However, Potter’s more recent comments have dimmed some of that optimism. Speaking via Fotboll Skanlen on Friday, he revealed that the striker remains short of full match readiness. For Liverpool, who need consistency and sharpness in their front line, it is a reminder that Isak’s road back to form will not be as smooth as hoped.

Potter explained, “He’s not ready to play two 90 minute games in four days, so we have to be smart and use him well. He is not ready to start tomorrow. I don’t want to talk too much about details or the starting eleven, but I think the best thing for Alex is to help us tomorrow from the bench.”

Slot has been eager to embed Isak into Liverpool’s regular starting structure, but so far that plan has stalled. The striker has featured in bursts rather than extended spells, and Potter’s assessment suggests that Liverpool will need to continue managing his minutes carefully.

Liverpool’s Need for Rhythm and Reliability

The timing could not be more delicate. The festive period is approaching, a stretch in which Liverpool traditionally rely on depth, durability and rhythm. With matches arriving every few days, Slot needs reliable contributors, particularly in forward areas where rotation becomes unavoidable.

Isak’s fragile injury record at Newcastle hinted that Liverpool might need to tread carefully, but few anticipated such a prolonged bedding-in period. It has resulted in a front line that occasionally feels improvised, with the team adjusting system and structure to compensate for his absence.

Photo: IMAGO

There is, however, no sense within the club that patience is running thin. Liverpool believe in the long term potential of the Swede, whose technical finesse, movement and composure in high pressure moments could still elevate the side once he finds sustained fitness. Each training session brings him closer to that point, even if the route is slower than expected.

Long Term Optimism Amid Short Term Frustration

Supporters know that some talents bloom steadily rather than immediately. While Isak’s impact so far might fall short of expectations, it does not diminish the belief that he can still become a defining figure at Anfield. The concerns around his fitness are valid, yet they are also part of a calculated effort by Potter and Slot to ensure his long term availability rather than rushing him back at the risk of another setback.

Liverpool will hope that once this international window passes, sustained minutes at club level help him find rhythm. His presence could be decisive as the season progresses, particularly once the demands of winter intensify.

For now, Liverpool wait, manage and trust. If the careful approach pays off, the frustrations of autumn may soon feel like a footnote.