Roberto Firmino has expressed confidence that Alexander Isak will find success at Liverpool despite a challenging start to his tenure at the club. Isak, 26, joined Liverpool from Newcastle United in a club-record £130 million transfer last year but has struggled to make an impact, scoring just four goals in 22 appearances amid injury setbacks, including a broken leg.

The Sweden international appeared visibly affected during Liverpool’s recent away match against Newcastle at St James’ Park, where he faced his former team. However, Firmino, a former Liverpool striker and club icon, believes Isak’s fortunes are set to improve. Speaking ahead of Liverpool’s home game against Nottingham Forest, Firmino emphasized the importance of maintaining a positive mindset.

“All strikers go through difficult periods but he has already proved in previous years that he’s one of the best in the Premier League,” Firmino said. Firmino himself faced a period of adjustment during his first season at Liverpool, scoring 11 goals in 49 appearances before rising to prominence as part of the club’s celebrated attacking trio alongside Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mané under manager Jürgen Klopp.

Firmino, who helped Liverpool secure multiple major trophies including the Champions League, Premier League, FA Cup, UEFA Super Cup, FIFA Club World Cup, and Carabao Cup before departing in 2023, acknowledged the pressures associated with playing as Liverpool’s primary striker. He advised Isak to stay relaxed and focus on regaining confidence.

“You can’t judge him on last season because he had bad injuries. It was a tough season for the club in general,” Firmino said. “But this is a new start and I’m sure he will grow in confidence. There’s no better place to be a No 9, scoring goals and helping the team win games.”

Firmino also highlighted the support of the Liverpool fanbase, noting the special atmosphere at Anfield and urging Isak to give his all on the pitch. “As long as you always give everything, then the fans stay right behind you. I believe in him,” he added.

Isak’s upcoming performances will be closely watched as he seeks to fulfill the expectations that accompanied his record-breaking transfer and justify Liverpool’s significant investment in the striker.