Alexander Isak fit as Arne Slot provides cautious return update
- Chris Stuart
- Nov 7
- 2 min read
Alexander Isak is fit to return to the Liverpool squad for Sunday’s trip to Manchester City, but Arne Slot has cautioned against placing too high expectations on the striker’s current form.
Isak will rejoin the team on Friday and is expected to be named on the bench for Sunday’s 4:30pm kick-off at the Etihad Stadium.
This comes after Isak has been out for four games with a groin injury. He was forced off at half-time in the 5-1 victory over Eintracht Frankfurt. Overall, he’s had a difficult start to the season.
Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Slot explained that Isak will train with the team for the first time in three weeks.
Slot acknowledged that he had previously said Isak’s pre-season was over and it was time to assess his current level. However, he reiterated that only three weeks of rehab aren’t enough to return him to his former self.
Slot emphasised that rehab isn’t comparable to playing football or training with the team. While the rehab team has done a great job, replicating those conditions isn’t possible. Therefore, he reiterated the need to give Isak some time.
Isak is expected to take up a bench role.
Slot is rightly playing down expectations for Isak’s return. It’s clear he’s still working towards full fitness and sharpness on the pitch.
Isak’s latest setback will likely slow his progress and require a gradual increase in playing time.
Hugo Ekitike is almost certainly starting up front against Man City, with Federico Chiesa another option in the No. 9 role. Cody Gakpo impressed in a brief stint as a striker in the 1-0 victory over Real Madrid in midweek.
Given these considerations, there’s no need to rush Isak back into starting contention. Slot is right to take a cautious approach with his £125 million centre-forward.
Isak has been called up to the Sweden squad for their World Cup qualifiers against Switzerland and Slovenia later this month. Head coach Graham Potter has already stressed the importance of managing Isak’s minutes in those games.
