Liverpool fans have been eager for positive news on Alexander Isak ever since he arrived at Anfield in a record-breaking move. But the story has not been simple.
In fact, the latest update from Sweden manager Graham Potter raises new questions — and one detail in his message may surprise many supporters who hoped to see Isak firing again soon.
Isak’s start to life at Liverpool has been anything but smooth. The striker joined late, missed preseason, and entered the season short of match fitness after pushing for his exit from Newcastle.
Since then, he has played only eight games and scored once. And just when he began settling in, another hurdle appeared.
A groin injury during Liverpool’s 5–1 win against Eintracht Frankfurt forced him out for four matches. He returned to the squad for the Manchester City clash, but he is still far from full sharpness.
Fans hoped the international break would give him a fresh start — but that plan has now taken a cautious turn.
Potter addressed Isak’s condition ahead of Sweden’s game against Switzerland and made Liverpool’s concerns very clear: “He’s not ready to play two 90-minute games in four days, so we have to be smart and use him well.”
He added, “No, he is not ready to start… I think the best thing for Alex is to help us from the bench.”
Back at Liverpool, Arne Slot has kept a similar stance. The Reds manager said before the Man City match: “He will train with the team for the first time today after being three weeks out.”
Slot added that rehab alone cannot prepare a player fully: “You cannot compare rehab with games of football or training with the team… give him some time.”
With both national and club coaches taking the careful route, the message is loud and clear: Liverpool will not rush their new forward.
After all, even elite strikers need proper buildup time — you can’t just press “play” and expect instant goals, even if Isak’s name sounds perfect for highlight reels.
A question Liverpool fans are asking: How long until Isak is truly ready?
Potter offered a hint but no guarantees: “He’s had a good week… He’s not ready for 90 minutes, but you’ll have to wait and see tomorrow.”
For now, patience remains the game plan. Liverpool want their £125m striker to deliver long-term impact, not short bursts followed by setbacks.
The club believes that once Isak finds rhythm, he can become a key part of the attack — but the road back to full fitness will take time and smart management.
Games Missed by Alexander Isak for Liverpool (2025/26 Season)
| Date/Period | Injury/Fitness Issue | Games Missed | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sept 2025 | Fitness delay after transfer | Several | Missed preseason and start of the Premier League season |
| Oct 22, 2025 | Groin injury vs Eintracht Frankfurt | 4 | Forced off in the Champions League match |
| Nov 2025 | Ongoing fitness management | 1 | Managed carefully; limited minutes to rebuild sharpness |
Isak has featured in 8 matches, scoring 1 goal and providing 1 assist this season.