Liverpool’s players have experienced mixed fortunes during the international break, following three consecutive defeats at club level. The opening round of World Cup qualifiers brought both highs and lows for several of the Reds’ stars.
Positive results came for a few key names. France duo Ibrahima Konaté and Hugo Ekitike helped their side to a comfortable 3–0 win over Azerbaijan, while Florian Wirtz was instrumental in Germany’s 4–0 victory against Luxembourg. Mohamed Salah also continued his fine form, scoring twice in Egypt’s 3–0 triumph over Djibouti to secure their place at next year’s tournament.
However, not all of Liverpool’s internationals enjoyed success. Alexander Isak’s Sweden suffered a 2–0 loss to Switzerland, while Kostas Tsimikas — currently on loan at Roma — scored in a 3–1 defeat to Andy Robertson’s Scotland.
Meanwhile, Conor Bradley impressed for Northern Ireland in their 2–0 win over Slovakia but once again picked up a yellow card, his seventh in just 12 matches this season. The suspension will rule him out of their next game against Germany, and his discipline has become a growing concern for both country and club.
Alexander Isak under scrutiny:
Isak’s first start for Sweden since joining Liverpool ended in frustration as his side remained bottom of Group B with only one point. Leading the team as captain, he hit the post early on but otherwise struggled to make an impact. Swedish media were harsh in their assessments — Fotbollskanalen rated him 2/5, while Svenska Fans went lower with 1/5, criticizing his lack of end product despite his work rate. The 26-year-old still has just one goal in six Liverpool appearances and will look to rediscover his scoring touch when Sweden face Kosovo on Monday.
Bradley’s discipline dilemma:
Bradley’s standout display against Slovakia — featuring five dribbles and 14 duels won — was overshadowed by another caution. His frequent bookings have already cost him minutes at Liverpool, with manager Arne Slot substituting him at half-time during the recent 2–1 loss to Chelsea to avoid a possible red card.
Frimpong’s adaptation continues:
New signing Jeremie Frimpong remains a puzzle for Slot as he adjusts to Anfield life. The Dutchman has played only 79 league minutes but continues to show promise. In the Netherlands’ 4–0 win over Malta, he impressed with six successful dribbles and 13 touches inside the box. Yet, De Telegraaf noted his inconsistent crossing. National coach Ronald Koeman, however, was upbeat: “Frimpong was a real threat — the right flank is improving all the time.”
Overall, the break has offered both encouragement and concern for Liverpool, with form, fitness, and discipline all key talking points as the squad prepares to return to club duty.
