Newcastle United supporters have been closely watching Alexander Isak’s early struggles at Liverpool, and the reaction has been anything but sympathetic.
Since leaving St James’ Park in a highly publicized transfer last summer, Isak has endured a tough start at Anfield, managing just one goal in eight Carabao Cup appearances. To make matters worse, a groin injury has sidelined him for Liverpool’s last four matches, compounding the frustrations surrounding his early form.
Newcastle fans, still stinging from his departure, have been quick to revel in these setbacks, while Nick Woltemade has stepped up at St James’ Park, scoring six goals and gradually filling the void left by the £130 million striker, who is now largely regarded as persona non grata on Tyneside.
Liverpool legend Sir Kenny Dalglish has stepped in to defend the striker, acknowledging the difficulties that come with settling into a new club, particularly one of Liverpool’s stature.
Dalglish, a figure who has never been particularly adored on Tyneside due to his managerial history, urged patience with Isak and other new signings, emphasizing that their adjustment period is natural. “Listen, they’ll all be good enough,” Dalglish remarked.
“Give them time to settle down. When you started in your job, did you have a tough start at the beginning? Just give them time. They’re going through a spell at the moment. They’re not winning as often as you like to win. But if you have so many new players bedding in, then that takes a wee bit of time.”
His message was clear: talent will shine through, but it requires a period of adaptation, and early struggles should not define a player’s trajectory.
Isak himself has sought to distance himself from the drama surrounding his move, emphasizing that dwelling on past controversies benefits no one. Speaking to Swedish media while on international duty, he stressed that his focus remains on his game and improving his performances for Liverpool.
“It’s nothing I want to dwell on now,” Isak said. “It doesn’t benefit anyone, neither me nor Newcastle so let it be. I’m working hard to push myself and play my game. Things have been a bit tougher for us [Liverpool]. I believe that as the team improves and things start to flow better, it will also go better for me.” His response reflects a professional mindset, focused on performance and team cohesion rather than external noise.
While Newcastle fans have not been shy in expressing their schadenfreude at Isak’s struggles, the broader context suggests that such challenges are common for high-profile transfers, especially for players moving to top clubs mid-season.
Isak’s talent remains unquestioned, and the support from Dalglish underscores that those familiar with the pressures of football at the highest level recognize the patience required. The combination of injury setbacks, team integration, and expectations has made this a testing period for the Swedish striker, but both he and Liverpool remain committed to long-term improvement.
As the Premier League season progresses and Liverpool continue to gel, Isak’s fortunes are likely to improve, providing a chance for both player and club to justify the record-breaking investment and silence early critics, including those back on Tyneside who have watched his start with a mix of glee and disbelief.
Newcastle supporters may continue to scrutinize every performance, but for Isak, the focus is firmly on moving forward, staying fit, and delivering for a team that still believes in his ability to succeed at the highest level.
The story is far from over, and his resilience during this challenging start could ultimately define the next chapter of his career.
