Liverpool have finally broken their silence regarding the absence of their record-breaking signing, Alexander Isak, during the Premier League clash against Burnley on Sunday (September 14, 2025).
The Swedish international striker became one of the hottest topics in the football world after completing a sensational transfer from Newcastle United on deadline day. His move did not only shock the Premier League but also set a new benchmark, becoming the most expensive transfer in English football history.
However, many fans were left puzzled when Isak was nowhere to be seen in Liverpool’s matchday squad against Burnley. Contrary to speculation, his absence had nothing to do with injury. Instead, Liverpool clarified that the striker is not yet fully prepared to play at the highest intensity due to a lack of preseason training.
Reports revealed that Isak deliberately skipped training sessions at Newcastle in the final weeks of the summer window to force through his dream transfer to Anfield. That decision, while effective in securing the move, meant he missed valuable fitness preparations and preseason rhythm.
Arne Slot Explains the Situation
In an official statement, Liverpool confirmed that Alexander Isak is expected to make his long-awaited debut in midweek when the Reds host Spanish giants Atlético Madrid in the Champions League group stage.
Throughout the week leading up to that fixture, the 25-year-old forward has been training with his new teammates at Kirkby. Manager Arne Slot, however, urged caution, emphasizing that the striker still needs time to reach peak match sharpness.
“As you all know, he didn’t train properly with Newcastle before the transfer. He only had a few minutes with the national team, but not enough to build full fitness,” Slot told Sky Sports. “That’s why we believe the upcoming match against Atlético Madrid is the right moment for his debut.”
Isak’s Physical Condition Still Behind
Slot also underlined that Isak’s physical condition is not at the same level as his Liverpool teammates who went through a complete preseason. The Dutch coach compared his current state to a player still in the early weeks of summer training.
“Normally, after one or two weeks of preseason, a player can handle 45 to 60 minutes. Right now, Isak is at that stage,” Slot explained. “The problem is our schedule is extremely tight — three games in a single week — so we can’t give him the luxury of a gradual buildup. We’ll need to manage him carefully.”
Despite his immense talent and reputation as one of Europe’s deadliest strikers, Slot stressed that Liverpool will not rush him. The Reds want to ensure Isak adapts properly to the team’s system while avoiding unnecessary physical risks.
Balancing Debut and Upcoming Derby
Adding to the challenge, Liverpool face another high-stakes fixture just days after the Atlético clash: the Merseyside Derby against Everton in the Premier League. Slot acknowledged the delicate situation of balancing Isak’s debut with the need to keep him fresh for one of the biggest domestic games of the season.
“This is a unique challenge for our coaching and performance staff,” said Slot. “We need to bring him up to speed quickly so that he can contribute to the team, but at the same time, we must protect his fitness and ensure he remains available throughout the long season.”
The Road Ahead
For Liverpool supporters, the wait to see Alexander Isak in red might feel frustrating, but patience could pay off. With his record-breaking price tag, natural goal-scoring instincts, and Premier League experience, expectations are sky-high.
If managed correctly, Isak’s debut could mark the beginning of a new era at Anfield — one where the Swedish striker plays a pivotal role in Liverpool’s pursuit of silverware both domestically and in Europe.
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