Alexander Isak Faces Immediate Pressure Following £125 Million Move to Liverpool
Liverpool’s record signing, Alexander Isak, arrives at Anfield under high expectations after fellow summer recruit Hugo Ekitike set an impressive benchmark. Isak could make his debut against Burnley on Sunday following his £125 million move from Newcastle on deadline day.
However, match fitness is a concern. Isak has had limited training in recent months, and Sweden coach Jon Dahl Tomasson has advised caution, suggesting the forward is not yet ready to start every game following a demanding international break.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot confirmed that Isak will be eased into the squad gradually, in contrast to Ekitike, who has already made a major impact. The French forward, signed for a potential £79 million from Eintracht Frankfurt, has scored three goals and provided an assist in just four appearances, becoming the first Liverpool player to score in his first three games since Daniel Sturridge 12 years ago.
Ekitike reflected on his strong start: “I think I adapted well. Of course, I still have areas to improve, but it was a good beginning. Playing alongside such talented teammates makes football easier and helps me grow. The key is consistency.” On comparisons to Sturridge, he added, “It’s an honor. I aim to surpass that. Playing with the best helps elevate my game.”
Last season, Isak netted 27 goals for Newcastle, finishing just behind Mo Salah in the Premier League Golden Boot race. Slot emphasized patience with the Swede: “We’ll manage Alex like Sweden did. Don’t expect him to play 90 minutes every week. He missed pre-season and team sessions, so we need to build him gradually. He’s signed for six years, and this is part of his journey.”
Slot concluded: “In football, there’s always criticism; sometimes you’re cheered, sometimes you’re not. This is part of his journey, and now he’s part of our team.”
