Alexander Isak could debut for Liverpool against Atletico Madrid. Virgil van Dijk stresses the need for a new striker after key player departures. Isak’s record-breaking transfer and impressive stats raise expectations. Van Dijk praises Isak’s quality, emphasizing the need for integration and teamwork.
Alexander Isak stands a good chance of making his Liverpool debut in their upcoming Champions League clash against Atletico Madrid. Liverpool's captain, Virgil van Dijk, has made it clear that the Reds were in dire need of a new striker after some key departures.
Isak's transfer to the Premier League champions was finalized on deadline day, marking a British-record deal worth up to £130 million, following what seemed like a never-ending transfer saga.
Due to his lack of pre-season involvement with his former club, Newcastle United, Isak was noticeably absent from Liverpool’s matchday squad during their recent 1-0 victory against Burnley. However, expectations are high that he will play a role when the Reds kick off their European campaign against Atletico on Wednesday. Despite this anticipation, manager Arne Slot has indicated that Isak is unlikely to play the full 90 minutes.
When questioned about the possibility of Isak's involvement, Slot responded optimistically: “There’s definitely a chance because he’s in the squad and has the chance to play. I would usually say I’m 99.9% sure, but I can say it’s 100% sure he will not play 90 minutes. But he’s part of the squad. The only thing we’re sure of is he will not play 90.”
Slot added, “It’s already a Champions League game to look forward to, but if people are looking forward to his playing time, that could happen tomorrow as well.” This statement adds to the excitement surrounding Isak's potential debut and what he might bring to Liverpool’s attack.
A look at Isak's recent Premier League record shows his prowess in front of goal. Since his arrival at Newcastle from Real Sociedad in August 2022, he has scored 54 Premier League goals. Only Erling Haaland (87) and Mohamed Salah (66) have scored more in that time, highlighting Isak's significant impact in the league. Furthermore, Isak has averaged a goal every 121 minutes for Newcastle, a testament to his efficiency in front of goal.
Among players with at least 20 Premier League goals during that period, Isak ranks third in shot conversion rate at 23.7%, trailing only Chris Wood (28.7%) and Haaland (24.2%). This statistic underscores his clinical finishing and ability to convert chances into goals, attributes that Liverpool will be eager to utilize.
Virgil van Dijk has been particularly impressed by Isak’s quality during training sessions since his return from international duty with Sweden. Van Dijk noted, “He’s made a very good impression, he’s very eager. Obviously, he’s been showing his quality already, since the first session. There are only positives. Off the pitch as well, we’re having conversations – I spoke to him during the international break once everything was sorted.”
Van Dijk further elaborated on Isak’s integration into the team, stating, “It’s now about getting him as fit as possible and understanding each of us as quickly as possible. How we train, how we press, our set-pieces… it’s been a good week for him.” The captain’s remarks highlight the team’s efforts to quickly integrate Isak into their system and ensure he is ready to contribute effectively.
The Dutchman also emphasized the necessity of signing Isak and Hugo Ekitike, whose €90m (£69m) move to Anfield was another significant addition. These moves were seen as essential replacements following the departures of Darwin Nunez and Luis Diaz, as well as the unfortunate passing of Diogo Jota.
“It’s not really an addition, is it? It’s a replacement because players with a lot of quality left us. We had to replace these players who were so important for us and who we had a lot of success with,” Van Dijk explained, highlighting the strategic importance of bringing in new talent to fill the void left by key players.
Addressing the pressure that comes with Isak’s hefty price tag, Van Dijk commented, “It comes with the price tag and we have no control over that. There will always be talk about that, which creates pressure, but it’s down to him and us that we don’t speak about it. Just work hard, enjoy being the number nine for Liverpool, help the team with goals and assists, link up play and help others. That’s the only thing.”
Liverpool fans eagerly anticipate seeing Alexander Isak in action and hope he can quickly adapt and replicate his impressive goal-scoring form for the Reds. His potential debut against Atletico Madrid adds an extra layer of excitement to their Champions League campaign, and his performance could be crucial in shaping Liverpool’s success this season.