Not the news Liverpool fans wanted…
Liverpool fans were left shocked on Tuesday night as Arne Slot confirmed that Alexander Isak, the club’s British transfer record signing, is not part of the squad to face Atletico Madrid in the Champions League at Anfield.
The £115 million striker, signed from Newcastle United in the summer transfer window, was expected to make his long-awaited European debut for Liverpool. Instead, fans arriving at Anfield were stunned to see Isak’s name missing from the official matchday squad list.
Speaking before the game, head coach Arne Slot revealed the reason behind the shock absence. “Isak has been carrying a minor fitness issue since returning from international duty. We tried everything to have him ready, but the medical staff strongly advised that he should not be risked in such an intense fixture. He is a huge player for this club, and we must protect him for the long season ahead.”
The omission comes as a huge blow for Liverpool, who face Diego Simeone’s defensive masterclass in Atletico Madrid. The Spanish side have been a thorn in Liverpool’s Champions League campaigns in recent years, and Slot’s team will now be forced to cope without their record-breaking striker.
Liverpool fans reacted with frustration and concern on social media, with many fearing that the injury could be more serious than the manager suggests. Isak was brought in to lead the line and provide the cutting edge in big games, but now Liverpool must rely on other forwards to deliver the goals under the Anfield lights.
Arne Slot, however, remains optimistic: “Liverpool is not about one man—it’s about the team. We have quality across the pitch, and tonight others will have the chance to step up. Isak will return soon, and when he does, he will be ready to show why this club made him the most expensive signing in British football history.”
For now, though, the spotlight shifts to Liverpool’s remaining attackers, as Anfield braces for a fiery Champions League night without their record-breaking signing.