Alexander Isak`s transfer to Liverpool concluded a protracted summer saga marked by his determined efforts to leave Newcastle. The striker reportedly went to great lengths to force his departure, including missing pre-season training and early Premier League matches, even training in isolation at one point. Isak subsequently accused the Magpies of “broken promises” regarding his future, an accusation the club adamantly refutes. After initially rejecting a substantial £110 million ($146.7 million) bid from Liverpool, Newcastle ultimately accepted an improved offer for the player.
Pundit Don Hutchison was unequivocal in his criticism of Isak`s conduct during the transfer process. He stated, “There’s no doubt (that he’s been unprofessional). Alexander Isak should have been more professional over the summer, and he’s paying for it now.” Hutchison argued that Isak`s actions, such as leaving the training camp and neglecting his fitness, were short-sighted and selfish. He emphasized that Isak needed to remain match-fit regardless of his potential move, highlighting his contractual obligation to Newcastle for fitness and professionalism. Hutchison suggested poor advice from Isak`s agent but ultimately held the player responsible, concluding, “Now he’s playing catch-up and it’s because of how he behaved.”
Since his arrival at Anfield, Isak has been gradually integrated into the Liverpool squad by manager Arne Slot, who has been carefully monitoring his playing time due to his missed pre-season. Isak has made six appearances for his new club across all competitions, contributing one goal and one assist. As he nears full fitness, Isak has expressed satisfaction with his move to Liverpool, commending the strong bond between the team and its supporters. Speaking ahead of Sweden`s meeting with Switzerland, he was quoted as saying: “Great so far. A great team and a city where the team has a good relationship with the fans. It’s been great so far.”
With a demanding schedule ahead, Liverpool faces a busy period post-international break, including fixtures against Manchester United, Eintracht Frankfurt, Brentford, Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, and a highly anticipated Champions League encounter with Real Madrid. A reporter covering Liverpool noted in a recent vlog that Isak`s path to full fitness is proving more challenging than anticipated. Citing a source from Newcastle, he mentioned an expectation of three months for Isak to reach peak condition. Given Isak has been at Liverpool for four to five weeks, this suggests another three to four weeks before he`s truly at his best. While there have been promising moments, such as a recent assist and a goal against Southampton, the overall journey to full match fitness appears more arduous than initially predicted by both the reporter and manager Slot.
