Many Liverpool fans have the same concern about Alexander Isak despite goal vs Nottingham Forest
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With Hugo Ekitike still sidelined, Liverpool are having to rely heavily on Alexander Isak to lead the line at the moment.The Swede kicked off the new season by struggling against former club Newcastle United last week, where he was treated to a very hostile atmosphere.Isak looked far from his best in that game, which may have been expected given how much pressure he was under.But after seeing him start at Anfield for the first time this season, many fans are concerned that their record signing has lost his pace following an injury-hit 12 months. What positives are you taking from that display? 🤔 Credit: Liverpool FC/Getty Images Liverpool fans concerned by Alexander Isak’s lack of pace vs Nottingham ForestWhen Isak was trying to force a move to Liverpool last summer he missed pre-season with Newcastle.He then had a number of injury and fitness issues across 2025/26, which limited the games he was able to start under Arne Slot.The 26-year-old has thankfully been kept fit over the summer and even got some much-needed minutes under his belt at the World Cup.But while he may be physically fit right now, Liverpool fans have noticed that the striker seems to have lost a yard of pace after watching him in action versus Forest.One fan stated: “Isak looks like a shadow of the player he was at Newcastle.
Closest comparison is Torres when he joined Chelsea. He looks like he’s lost a yard of pace, knows it, and his confidence has completely eroded.
His body language tells the story, everything looks rushed and difficult.”Another echoed: “Isak has lost a yard of pace he doesn’t look sharp at all.”“Not surprised Isak has lost some of his pace but man.. he’s a shadow of his former self out there,” stated a third.A fourth commented: “Isak has really lost some pace,” with another stating: “Isak has lost his pace. That’s what injuries do to a player.”When is Hugo Ekitike back from injury?For now at least, Iraola looks set to stick with Isak, who will hopefully build more fitness in the coming weeks and should have a confidence boost on the back of his goal.Alternatively, while Ekitike is out of action, Cody Gakpo (if he stays) and Victor Munoz are both technically capable of playing as a centre-forward.But it will be some time before we see Liverpool’s French striker back in action.While it’s hard to put an exact date on Ekitike’s return, he does look set to be involved again around Christmas time or early January.Join Our NewsletterReceive a digest of our best Liverpool content each week direct to your mailbox