Alexander Isak is preparing to leave behind a challenging first season at Liverpool as he enters the club’s pre-season campaign fully fit and ready to contribute. The Sweden international, signed for a British record fee of £125 million, struggled with injuries during his debut campaign, scoring only four goals before a broken leg ended his season prematurely. Now, under new manager Andoni Iraola, Isak is set to make his first pre-season appearance in a match against Leeds in Chicago.
Isak’s initial season with Liverpool was hampered by fitness issues and a significant injury that sidelined him for several months. He made limited impact under previous management, adding to the pressure on both him and fellow high-profile signing Florian Wirtz, who also struggled to find form. The duo’s underwhelming performances were among the factors that led to a managerial change at the club.
Since joining Newcastle ahead of the 2022-23 season, Isak ranked among the Premier League’s top strikers with 57 goals, trailing only Erling Haaland, Mohamed Salah, and Ollie Watkins. Liverpool, having lost Salah, are seeking goals from Isak, particularly with key forward Hugo Ekitike sidelined long-term due to a ruptured Achilles tendon. The club’s commitment to Isak reflects a belief that he can return to his previous prolific form.
Iraola has expressed optimism about Isak’s condition and potential impact. Speaking ahead of the pre-season fixtures, he emphasized Isak’s readiness and importance to the team’s future. “Alex is exciting,” Iraola said. “He has come to pre-season in a good place, had a good World Cup, [feeling] comfortable. I hope he can play against Leeds and have a proper pre-season… he is going to be massive for us.”
Former Liverpool striker Robbie Fowler also voiced strong support for Isak, highlighting the player’s talent and capacity to fulfill expectations. Fowler praised Isak’s ability to excite fans and create opportunities, noting his strengths in both scoring and creating chances for teammates. He acknowledged Isak’s injury setbacks but remains confident in his ability to develop under the new regime.
During an impactful World Cup campaign paired alongside Arsenal’s Viktor Gyokeres for Sweden, Isak showed improved physicality and resilience. His off-season preparation has included a focus on building strength and adapting to the increased intensity demanded by Iraola’s tactics. In Chicago, Isak has trained alongside Robert Lewandowski, the experienced striker now with MLS club Chicago Fire.
Iraola envisions Isak operating as a central striker, with Wirtz positioned as a traditional number 10, a role adjustment aimed at maximizing both players’ effectiveness. With a combined transfer investment of £241 million in the pair, Liverpool’s management is keen to see immediate returns rather than extended adaptation periods.
As Liverpool looks ahead to the new season, the spotlight is on Isak to justify his record transfer fee and emerge as a leading scorer. The club’s aspirations, and Iraola’s tenure, depend heavily on whether Isak and Wirtz can meet the high expectations placed upon them.