Liverpool’s £125 million record signing, Alexander Isak, is now “100% ready” to make a significant impact, according to manager Arne Slot. The Swedish striker’s transition to Anfield has been slower than anticipated, primarily due to his late pre-season involvement with Newcastle before forcing through the high-profile move. However, after seven weeks with Liverpool and playing the full duration of Sweden’s recent World Cup qualifiers, Slot believes the 25-year-old is now fully fit and primed to lead the line against Manchester United.
Isak’s fitness struggles were well documented when he arrived at Liverpool, having missed the majority of pre-season training. The club had to gradually build up his match fitness through Premier League and Champions League appearances rather than the ideal pre-season preparation. But Slot believes that the striker is now at the level required to perform consistently at the highest level.
“Fitness-wise, he is close to the level he should be and we can judge him in a fair way from now on,” said Slot. “The first few weeks were tough because we had the player we signed, but he wasn’t completely ready. He was getting fitter, but doing that in a Premier League game is not normal for a player. Ideally, you’d have him in friendly matches, but there was no time in the middle of the season for that.”
Isak’s performances so far have been solid, with one goal in the Carabao Cup win against Southampton. However, Slot has clear expectations for the striker moving forward. “Goals are the most simple thing,” Slot emphasized, “but we also need him to be a leader in pressing from our front three. That’s something he can improve, but the same goes for Hugo [Ekitiké].”
Slot also highlighted the importance of Isak’s role in set-piece situations, an area where Liverpool has room for improvement. While Liverpool leads the Premier League in creating chances from open play and shots on target, they have struggled in converting set-piece opportunities. Isak’s ability to be involved in both aspects of the game—goals from open play and threats from set-pieces—could be crucial for the club as they look to mount another title challenge.
For Isak, it’s about proving he can be the consistent goal-scorer Liverpool needs, while also contributing to the team’s pressing game and set-piece threat. Slot’s confidence in his star striker is clear, and all eyes will be on Isak as he looks to step up against Manchester United this weekend.
