As Liverpool traveled to Burnley, fans were surprised to see Alexander Isak missing from the matchday squad.
Head coach Arne Slot’s decision was made with careful consideration. Reports indicate that the coaching staff views Isak as a high-potential signing who needs to be integrated gradually rather than rushed into play before he’s fully fit.
The primary reason for Isak’s absence is his lack of match fitness. He joined Liverpool on deadline day, and his pre-season preparation was disrupted due to the timing of the transfer and the need to catch up.
While fans speculated that Isak might at least see some action during the match, Slot confirmed he wasn’t ready. “Not today. As everyone knows, he didn’t have any team training at Newcastle,” Slot told Sky Sports, as reported by Liverpool.com. “He went to the national team and only played for 15 to 20 minutes. With three games in seven days, we believe this is the best way to prepare him for the match against Atletico Madrid.”
Slot elaborated, explaining that in a typical pre-season, a player gradually increases their playtime after one or two weeks of training. However, due to the packed schedule, proper training sessions are limited, making it harder for Isak to catch up. “He’s probably at the second or third week of pre-season now. We hope he can play 45 minutes or more this week, but then we have Everton two days later, so it’ll be a challenge for our performance staff to manage him effectively.”
Slot’s cautious approach appears justified. Giving Isak extra time to build his fitness before his debut seems wise, especially since Liverpool is performing well, having won their first three league matches. With another summer signing, Hugo Ekitike, already making an impact with two goals in three games, Slot has other attacking options.
If Isak is managed thoughtfully and gradually acclimatizes to Liverpool’s demands, he is likely to showcase the talent that warranted Liverpool’s investment.