Arne Slot Anticipated the Isak Question — and Had the Perfect Reply Ready
Ahead of tonight’s clash between Newcastle and Liverpool, much of the pre-match chatter was dominated by speculation around Alexander Isak. The Swedish striker, who has made it clear he wants a move to Liverpool, was notably absent from the game — but he still managed to loom large over the buildup.
Yet, the game at St James’ Park was so action-packed that Isak ended up taking a back seat. Anthony Gordon’s red card, Hugo Ekitike netting for the third match in a row, and a dramatic 100th-minute winner from Rio Ngumoha on his Premier League debut quickly stole the headlines.
Slot Deflects Isak Speculation and Shifts Focus to Ekitike
After Liverpool’s thrilling win, Arne Slot spoke to Sky Sports and was — as expected — asked whether discussions about Isak were likely in the final days of the transfer window.
Instead of addressing the speculation directly, Slot redirected the conversation toward his in-form striker, Ekitike:
“I think the real story is Hugo Ekitike scoring another goal for us. It wouldn’t be right for me to talk about anything else.”
He added, “He’s played three games and scored three goals. He’s made a real impact, just like my other attackers. Tonight’s not the time to speak about anything else — though I understand the question.”
Is Ekitike Being Overlooked Despite His Impactful Start?
Slot’s response was spot on — avoiding the Isak narrative and instead highlighting a player who’s delivering on the pitch.
It’s remarkable that Ekitike, a £69 million signing who has scored in each of his first three appearances for Liverpool, isn’t receiving more attention. Quietly but confidently, he’s making an excellent start to life at Anfield.
Even Slot didn’t catch tonight’s goal live — it came just 20 seconds after the restart, before the coach had returned to the dugout.
Amid all the noise around Isak, Ekitike’s standout performances shouldn’t go unnoticed. He’s already beginning to justify his price tag.
And if — a big if — Liverpool do manage to land Isak before the window closes, Slot might face a selection headache: how to accommodate both the Swedish and French strikers without sidelining a player who’s currently in outstanding form.
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