“What he needs to focus on” – Arne Slot shares Alexander Isak’s ‘key challenge’ at Liverpool

Arne Slot has outlined what Alexander Isak’s ‘main challenge’ will be in the coming months.

The Swedish international completed his move to Liverpool from fellow Premier League club Newcastle on the final day of the summer transfer window after a prolonged transfer saga. During his last weeks at Newcastle, Isak was separated from the squad as he made clear his desire to join Anfield.

Isak’s recent international appearance was as a late substitute for Sweden during the international break, marking his first game since the final match of last season in May. Slot recognizes that his new striker faces a significant task in regaining full match fitness.

“Getting fit. Getting fit after missing four months of proper team sessions,” Slot said (quoted by Irish News) when asked about Isak’s biggest challenge since joining Liverpool.

“He doesn’t need to prove his ability to play in the Premier League—that’s already been established at Newcastle. His main challenge is reaching a level of fitness that allows him to perform like he did last season.

“Once he’s match fit and can play a full 90 minutes, the next step is handling three full games a week, and then pushing further with his pressing game.

“That’s what he needs to focus on; scoring goals and producing special moments in attack is something he will undoubtedly deliver.”

Anyone who follows the Premier League knows the quality of our new forward.

Last season, Isak scored 27 goals and provided six assists in 42 appearances across all competitions, including a goal in Newcastle’s cup final win against Liverpool at Wembley. His instinct for goal is clear, which explains why Slot and the club were willing to invest £125 million to secure him.

Slot, the Dutch coach, is mindful not to place excessive pressure on Isak after his high-profile transfer, and his remarks suggest a careful approach.

Liverpool will face Spanish side Atletico Madrid at Anfield tomorrow in their opening Champions League match.

It remains uncertain whether Isak will play, but Slot did hint at his involvement.

“Normally, I would say 99.9 percent sure, but I can say 100 percent he will not play the full 90 minutes,” the Liverpool manager said. “It’s already a Champions League game to be excited about, and if fans are eagerly anticipating his playing time, that might just happen tomorrow too.”