Alexander Isak has dismissed reports suggesting he regrets his move to Liverpool, affirming that he feels settled and optimistic about his future at Anfield. The Swedish forward, who joined Liverpool in a British record transfer worth £125 million from Newcastle, spoke about his progress and current form ahead of the new season.
Isak, 26, scored three goals and provided one assist in five starts this season, a marked improvement compared to his previous campaign when he managed only four goals. His initial season at Liverpool was hampered by fitness issues, including a four-month absence due to a broken leg, which limited him to just three starts in the latter half of the season.
“I feel good,” Isak told the BBC. “I’m in a good place, the team is in a good place, and the positive is it feels like things are getting better and better each week, each training session, which makes me and the rest feel confident going forward.” He acknowledged the challenges posed by his injury but emphasized focusing on the future rather than dwelling on setbacks.
When questioned about any regrets over his decision to join Liverpool last season, Isak firmly responded, “No, never.” He highlighted the club’s stature and ambition as key factors in his move. “Liverpool are a massive club, and everything about the club made it pretty clear, and the club’s ambition and the club’s will to get me in as well. It was a big part of it.”
Under new manager Andoni Iraola, Isak is adapting to a tactical approach that demands both offensive contributions and involvement in defensive duties. “He asks me to be part of the defending but to defend in positions where, when we win the ball, we can counter quickly,” Isak said. “He said, ‘Score goals,’ but he wants me to defend. The way we defend – we defend to score goals so the defending, in the end, is an attacking weapon.”
Isak described Iraola’s high-intensity style as being beneficial to both the player and the team. “That’s the plan. That’s what the team needs. It’s not just about getting the ball to me, it’s about getting the ball forward to all of the offensive players quickly. That will benefit the team. If we can do that then we should score more goals.”
All three of Isak’s goals this season have come with assists from teammate Cody Gakpo, who remained at Liverpool despite links to a potential £85 million transfer to Manchester City during the recent window. Isak praised Gakpo’s qualities and humility, saying, “We are all pleased [he has stayed], we all know what qualities he has. We’re really happy with the situation.”
