‘Don’t Expect’—Arne Slot Reveals Alexander Isak Debut Plan for Liverpool

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has confirmed that new signing Alexander Isak will be available to play at least 45 minutes in one of the club's upcoming matches this week, potentially as early as Wednesday's Champions League opener. Isak was notably left out of the squad entirely for Liverpool's recent Premier League match against Burnley, a decision Slot explained was strategic to ensure the player is prepared for more significant roles in critical fixtures ahead.

The Sweden international is still building match fitness after a self-imposed break from training during the summer, which delayed his integration following his move from Newcastle United. Slot emphasized that giving Isak brief substitute appearances would not be an effective way to develop his readiness. Instead, the club has focused on providing him with intensive training sessions to establish a fitness base, mirroring the approach taken by the Swedish national team during the recent international break.

Slot detailed that Isak's current physical condition means he is not yet prepared to handle multiple matches in a short span. If he plays 45 minutes in the Champions League, he is unlikely to feature for a similar duration in the subsequent Merseyside derby. The player has undergone recovery and tough training sessions since joining, with the club carefully managing his workload to gradually acclimate him to the demands of the schedule ahead.