Liverpool’s season has taken another uncomfortable turn, and once again Alexander Isak finds himself at the center of the noise. For Newcastle United supporters, the situation has become a strange source of satisfaction.
Even as their own club navigates a frustrating and uneven campaign, many on Tyneside have been closely watching Isak’s struggles at Anfield, and the latest update has only added fuel to that feeling.
Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has confirmed that Isak picked up a knock during the Reds’ dramatic midweek victory over Inter Milan. The injury occurred in the first half and has now placed the Swedish striker in doubt for the upcoming league clash against Brighton.
While Liverpool assess his condition, Newcastle fans have continued what has been jokingly described as a “hate-watch,” following Isak’s difficult start to life on Merseyside with keen interest.
Since forcing his move away from St James’ Park in the summer, Isak has failed to live up to the enormous expectations that came with his £130 million transfer fee.
The 26-year-old endured a turbulent summer, pushing hard for an exit, a decision that left a sour taste among many Newcastle supporters. So far, his performances have done little to quiet the criticism.
Two goals in 14 appearances across competitions is a return that falls well short of what Liverpool hoped for when they committed such a huge sum.
Injuries have not helped his cause. Earlier in the season, Isak missed matches due to a groin problem, and this latest knock raises fresh concerns about his durability.
For a player expected to lead the line, stay fit, and deliver consistently, these interruptions have only added pressure and frustration.
Speaking to the media, Slot explained the situation calmly but cautiously. He confirmed that Isak took a knock during the Inter match and said the club would need to see how he recovers before making a decision about his involvement against Brighton.
The Liverpool boss admitted that even if Isak is fit, there are still choices to be made regarding how the attack is set up, suggesting rotation remains an option.
The Inter game also saw Isak start alongside Hugo Ekitike, a pairing that once existed only as a theory during discussions at Newcastle. Slot was asked whether the two could form a regular partnership, and his response was measured but positive.
He acknowledged that chemistry takes time and pointed out that it was only the second time they had played together. Compared to Inter’s established strike duo, Slot admitted his own forwards are still learning each other’s movements. Still, he saw encouraging signs and hinted that the pairing could be used more often as the season progresses.
From Isak’s point of view, there is a clear awareness that things are not going as planned. When asked about his difficult summer and the criticism surrounding his form, he chose not to look back.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Isak said his focus is firmly on the present and that he expects more from himself. He spoke about the constant desire to improve, even when things are going well, and stressed that he remains determined to push forward and do better.
He also made it clear that he does not need outside voices to tell him when he is performing well or poorly. According to Isak, he knows his own standards and is working to reach them again.
His words suggested confidence and self-belief, but for many observers, those qualities now need to be backed up with goals and strong performances on the pitch.
For Liverpool, patience may be required, but patience is often in short supply when big money is involved. Every missed chance, every quiet game, and every injury setback adds to the growing pressure.
For Newcastle fans, meanwhile, the situation continues to feel like a form of delayed justice. While they have moved on and rebuilt their squad, seeing a former star struggle elsewhere has softened the blow of his departure.
Whether Isak can turn things around at Anfield remains to be seen. Talent has never been the issue, and football history is full of players who started slowly before finding their rhythm.
But for now, Liverpool have been rocked again, and Newcastle’s watchful eyes remain firmly fixed on the situation, waiting to see what happens next.
