Liverpool face concern as Newcastle view on Alexander Isak’s fitness emerges
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Liverpool face concerns about Alexander Isak’s fitness following his deadline-day transfer from Newcastle United. Isak, who missed Newcastle’s pre-season tour due to a minor thigh injury and then trained alone at Real Sociedad while seeking a transfer, has not had regular team training recently. Liverpool’s head coach Arne Slot explained that Isak had virtually no team training prior to joining Liverpool and played only 15-20 minutes for Sweden after his isolated training period. Slot indicated that Isak is currently at about the level of the second or third week of a typical pre-season and is aiming to be ready to debut against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League, rather than the weekend’s Premier League match against Burnley[1].
Sweden’s manager Jon Dahl Tomasson also commented on Isak’s situation, noting the striker’s enthusiasm and happiness to return to group training but confirmed his fitness levels are not yet at peak. Tomasson remarked that Isak cannot yet play 90 minutes due to the lack of a normal pre-season, but emphasized careful management to avoid rushing him back too soon. He highlighted Isak’s positive attitude as a good sign despite the fitness concerns[2][4].
The backdrop to Isak’s fitness concerns includes a contentious and public transfer saga where Isak refused to rejoin Newcastle’s squad, demanding a move that eventually materialized late in the window. Newcastle publicly refuted Isak’s claims of promises made regarding his departure and highlighted that no agreement had been reached. This stalemate contributed to his lack of training and match sharpness before his Liverpool arrival[3].
Overall, Liverpool's medical and coaching staff are tasked with managing Isak’s gradual return to full fitness amid a packed schedule, hoping to integrate him effectively without risking injury, aiming for his competitive debut in midweek European action rather than immediate Premier League matches[1].
PP