Liverpool's Arne Slot Defends Alexander Isak Amid Strike Controversy: 'No Concerns' Over £125m Record Signing's Attitude
Liverpool, September 13, 2025 – New Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has dismissed any 'red flags' surrounding Alexander Isak's acrimonious departure from Newcastle United, insisting the £125 million British record signing poses no attitude issues at Anfield. The Dutchman addressed the forward's decision to go on strike to force the move, emphasizing that such drama wouldn't occur under Liverpool's transfer policy.
Slot, speaking ahead of Sunday's Premier League trip to Burnley, said, "No, I just look at the club. It’s not necessary at our club, because we also trade players." Isak, 26, missed preseason and Newcastle's opening three games after refusing to train, citing broken promises from the Magpies. The Sweden international made his first appearance since the saga in a World Cup qualifier against Kosovo on Monday but is unlikely to start for the Reds just yet, having only joined first-team training on Friday.
The transfer ended a summer-long pursuit, with Liverpool securing Isak despite fan backlash on Tyneside and a terse Newcastle statement. Slot warned supporters not to expect immediate impact: "You won't see much of him over the next few weeks," he noted, prioritizing gradual integration. Isak's debut could come off the bench at Turf Moor, adding firepower to a Liverpool side that's started strongly as champions.
Slot's stance reflects confidence in Isak's talent—21goals in the Premier League last season – and Liverpool's handling of exits, contrasting Newcastle's "lose-lose" situation. As the Reds build on their title defense, Isak's arrival could prove transformative, provided he adapts swiftly.
Slot, speaking ahead of Sunday's Premier League trip to Burnley, said, "No, I just look at the club. It’s not necessary at our club, because we also trade players." Isak, 26, missed preseason and Newcastle's opening three games after refusing to train, citing broken promises from the Magpies. The Sweden international made his first appearance since the saga in a World Cup qualifier against Kosovo on Monday but is unlikely to start for the Reds just yet, having only joined first-team training on Friday.
The transfer ended a summer-long pursuit, with Liverpool securing Isak despite fan backlash on Tyneside and a terse Newcastle statement. Slot warned supporters not to expect immediate impact: "You won't see much of him over the next few weeks," he noted, prioritizing gradual integration. Isak's debut could come off the bench at Turf Moor, adding firepower to a Liverpool side that's started strongly as champions.
Slot's stance reflects confidence in Isak's talent—21goals in the Premier League last season – and Liverpool's handling of exits, contrasting Newcastle's "lose-lose" situation. As the Reds build on their title defense, Isak's arrival could prove transformative, provided he adapts swiftly.
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