Liverpool’s £125 Million Signing Alexander Isak to Be Gradually Integrated, Says Arne Slot
Liverpool’s record signing, Alexander Isak, will not immediately feature for full 90 minutes in every match, according to manager Arne Slot. The £125 million forward, who joined from Newcastle United on deadline day, will be eased into the team to manage fitness and long-term performance.
Slot on Isak’s Transfer
“A lot happened on the last day, but what makes me happiest is securing Alex’s deal,” Slot said. He praised Richard Hughes, the club ownership, and all involved in finalizing the transfer, emphasizing the benefits for fans, players, and the club.
The 25-year-old striker scored 27 goals for Newcastle last season, but Slot stressed careful management is essential due to fitness concerns. He also acknowledged Sweden coach Jon Dahl Tomasson for managing Isak’s workload during international duty. “He deserves significant praise for realizing that playing him twice for 90 minutes could risk an injury,” Slot noted.
Why Isak Won’t Play Full Matches Immediately
Isak participated only minimally in pre-season, so Slot plans to gradually integrate him. “Don’t expect him to be on the pitch for 90 minutes every game in the coming weeks,” he said. “We didn’t sign him just for the next two weeks; we signed him for six years.”
Isak himself admitted he is not yet at full fitness but has shown commitment by returning to training promptly after international duty. The recent signing of Hugo Ekitike, who has already impressed, allows Liverpool to manage Isak’s workload carefully without rushing him.
Slot also noted he hasn’t had much direct contact with Isak yet but is confident in the striker’s quality, having faced him previously. With both Isak and Florian Wirtz joining this summer, Liverpool boasts one of Europe’s most exciting and expensive attacking lines, and Slot is determined to ensure the record signing thrives over the long term.
