Liverpool’s Record Signing of Alexander Isak Involved Heavy Reliance on Sports Science Experts
Liverpool’s headline-making acquisition of Alexander Isak on deadline day, valued at a British-record £125 million (potentially rising to nearly £130 million with bonuses), was anything but simple.
According to the Express, the club’s sports science team played a pivotal role in addressing serious concerns over the Swedish striker’s fitness before the deal could go through.
Isak’s injury history during his time at Newcastle—who paid around £63 million for him in 2022—was a major red flag. Over his stint there, he missed an astonishing 39 matches and over 200 training sessions, largely due to recurring groin problems.
Liverpool Had Concerns Over Isak’s Injury Record
These issues made Liverpool hesitant. Before finalizing the transfer, they needed solid proof that Isak could physically withstand the demands of playing for the club.
To get that clarity, the Reds turned to their sports science specialists. This team conducted a comprehensive evaluation of Isak’s physical condition to determine whether he could be integrated safely into Liverpool’s high-intensity style of play.
The assessment provided some relief—experts concluded that Isak’s condition could be managed and that preventative measures could reduce future injury risks.
A Bumpy Road to Anfield
Isak’s route to Liverpool wasn’t smooth. Frustrated by Newcastle’s decision to halt transfer negotiations, he went on strike, skipped pre-season training, and instead kept fit by training alone in Spain. This lack of structured preparation only heightened Liverpool’s concerns about his fitness.
Nonetheless, the club moved forward, putting their faith in the internal evaluations. Confident in their sports science team’s ability to manage the situation, Liverpool gave the green light to the transfer.
After the move, Isak joined the Sweden national team, where head coach Jon Dahl Tomasson also showed caution. He confirmed that Isak wasn’t yet ready to play full matches but commended the close cooperation between Liverpool’s and Sweden’s medical and coaching staff.
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