The wait for Liverpool fans to finally see their new record signing in action is over. After a summer transfer saga that seemed to last forever, Alexander Isak made his long-awaited debut for the club in their opening UEFA Champions League match against Atletico Madrid.
The Swedish striker’s move from Newcastle United was the biggest story of the deadline day, and all eyes were on him to see how he would perform after missing the team’s previous Premier League game.
There was a good reason for his absence against Burnley. Following a summer where he made it clear he wanted to leave Newcastle, Isak had missed a significant amount of team training and was not considered match-fit.
Manager Arne Slot had a plan, however, and that plan always involved introducing Isak in this European fixture.
Throwing a new player into such a high-pressure game could be seen as a risk, but Slot’s decision was based on getting his star man integrated as quickly as possible.
From the opening whistle, it was clear that Isak was not just on the pitch to make up the numbers. He slotted into the central striker role with Mohamed Salah and Cody Gakpo providing width on the wings.
Although his name did not appear on the scoresheet, his performance was filled with promising moments that showcased exactly why the club was willing to break the British transfer record to sign him.
His movement off the ball was intelligent, constantly looking to find space between Atletico’s disciplined defensive lines.
His quick feet and technical ability were also on display, as he looked comfortable receiving the ball in tight spaces.
The game could not have started better for Liverpool, who raced into a two-goal lead within the first six minutes.
This early advantage actually changed the dynamic of the match, meaning the team could sit back a little more and control the game, which naturally reduced the service to the forward players.
Despite having fewer chances to make an impact, Isak still managed to give the fans a glimpse of his quality.
In the 13th minute, he produced a clever piece of skill with a neat step-over that took him into the opposition penalty area, showing a flash of the individual brilliance he possesses.
As the first half progressed, he grew more involved in the team’s link-up play. He connected well with Salah and Gakpo, but it was his understanding with fellow big-money signing Florian Wirtz that really caught the eye.
The two combined for a clever one-two that nearly resulted in a goal, demonstrating a promising partnership that could be vital for the season ahead.
Just before halftime, Isak even managed to get a shot away, testing the Atletico goalkeeper Jan Oblak. It was not his most powerful effort, but it showed his desire to get on the scoresheet on his debut.
Manager Arne Slot decided to withdraw Isak in the 58th minute, a sensible move to manage his fitness with a view to the important Merseyside derby against Everton at the weekend.
He was replaced by Hugo Ekitike, the other striker who will be competing with him for the starting role this season.
The reaction from Liverpool fans after the match was overwhelmingly positive. There was a recognition that he is still building his match sharpness, but most supporters were thrilled with what they saw.
Many took to social media to express their excitement, with one fan declaring that his ability to create shooting chances with a single touch made him worth every penny of the £130 million fee.
Others were particularly enthusiastic about the budding connection between Isak and Wirtz, suggesting that their link-up play could become a defining feature of the team’s attack this season.
The general consensus was that Isak looked “phenomenal” and “incredibly sharp,” with many believing he will significantly improve an attacking line that was already very strong.
For a player who has had very little time to train with his new teammates, his ability to fit in so seamlessly was the biggest takeaway.
It appears that Arne Slot’s plan to gradually introduce him is working perfectly. The challenge for Isak now is to maintain this level of performance, hold down a starting spot, and begin repaying his enormous transfer fee with goals. Based on this first outing, he looks more than ready for the task.
