Not the news Liverpool fans wanted… 😬
Anfield was buzzing on Tuesday night, but the atmosphere dipped when the official squad list revealed that Alexander Isak, Liverpool’s £115 million record signing, would not feature against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League.
The Swedish striker, signed from Newcastle to lead the Reds’ attack on Europe’s biggest stage, was expected to make his long-awaited European debut for Liverpool. Instead, fans were left stunned by his absence.
Head coach Arne Slot explained before kickoff:
“Isak has been carrying a minor fitness issue since returning from international duty. We tried everything to have him ready, but the medical staff strongly advised against the risk. He’s a huge player for this club, and we need to protect him for the long season ahead.”
The blow comes as Liverpool prepare to face Diego Simeone’s notoriously resilient Atletico side—familiar foes who have knocked the Reds out of Europe before. Without their record-breaking striker, Liverpool must lean on their remaining forwards to find the goals under the Anfield lights.
Supporters flooded social media with frustration and worry, fearing the injury might be more serious than Slot suggested. Isak was brought in to provide firepower in precisely these kinds of games, and his absence leaves a noticeable gap.
Slot, though, struck a note of confidence:
“Liverpool is not about one man—it’s about the team. We have quality all over the pitch, and tonight others will have the chance to step up. Isak will return soon, and when he does, he’ll show why this club made him the most expensive signing in British football history.”
For now, the spotlight turns to the rest of Liverpool’s attack, as Anfield braces itself for a classic European battle—without its headline summer signing.