When Liverpool splashed out £125 million on Alexander Isak from Newcastle United this summer, fans knew they were getting one of Europe’s most talented forwards.
What they didn’t expect was how long it would take for him to hit full stride. After a disrupted pre-season and careful load management by Liverpool’s medical team, Isak now says he’s finally ready to go the distance.
Speaking ahead of Sweden’s World Cup qualifier against Switzerland, the 26-year-old declared he’s fit and eager for his first full 90 minutes since May.
“Tomorrow I’m ready for 90 minutes if needed. It’s been a month now. I’ve had a lot more playing time and things have calmed down. I feel in a much better position now than last time,” Isak told Fotbollskanalen.
It’s been a slow but steady journey for the striker, who joined Liverpool late in the transfer window after months of uncertainty. Having missed Newcastle’s pre-season while negotiating his move, Isak effectively began his fitness buildup at Anfield.
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A careful comeback for Isak under Arne Slot
Manager Arne Slot and his staff reportedly took a cautious approach, treating Isak’s early matches as an extended “pre-season.” The plan was to build his minutes gradually to avoid setbacks. So far, that strategy has worked — even if fans have had to be patient.
| Alexander Isak’s Early Liverpool Stats | Figure |
|---|---|
| Matches Played | 6 |
| Starts | 4 |
| Goals | 1 |
| Assists | 1 |
| Minutes Played | 312 |
| Most Minutes in a Match | 84 (vs. Crystal Palace) |
For a player who hadn’t completed 90 minutes since May 25, that’s a solid platform to build on. Slot is expected to unleash the striker fully after the October international break, a timeline that aligns with Isak’s latest declaration of readiness.
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What Sweden manager said on Liverpool managing Isak’s playing time?
Sweden manager Jon Dahl Tomasson echoed Liverpool’s patient approach. “We need a good Isak this month and next month. That’s how we plan, while Liverpool have done really well.”
His comments hint that both club and country share the same long-term focus — keep Isak fit, not just active.
Isak himself is embracing a new role, both as a player and as a leader. “I’m starting to become one of the older ones. I want to be a leader and feel a responsibility, both on and off the field,” he said.
Despite Liverpool’s recent dip in form, the striker insists his start at the club has been positive. “Great so far. Great team and a city where the team has a good relationship with the fans,” Isak noted with a smile — a statement that will please Reds supporters eager to see him settle.