Liverpool appears to have found a more balanced attacking setup without Mohamed Salah in the starting XI, following Alexander Isak’s impressive performance against West Ham.
Salah remained on the bench for Liverpool’s trip to the London Stadium, with Florian Wirtz, Cody Gakpo, and Isak leading the attack. Isak, who has struggled since his move from Newcastle, marked a breakthrough by scoring his first Premier League goal for the Reds—only his second in all competitions—giving Liverpool the lead against West Ham.
The Sweden international showcased exceptional technique, converting a precise cutback from Gakpo with a first-time finish that Alphonse Areola couldn’t stop. While Isak appeared sluggish in the first half, his clinical strike highlighted the quality that justified Liverpool’s significant investment in him last September.
Salah’s absence also allowed Liverpool to stretch the field more effectively, with Gakpo taking on greater responsibility on the wings and Isak providing a focal point in attack.
The Reds looked sharper in transition, more patient in possession, and more clinical in finishing, suggesting that the team can operate effectively without their talisman when necessary.
Equally noteworthy was Wirtz, who appeared more influential than ever. Linking up seamlessly with Isak and Gakpo, Wirtz orchestrated several dangerous moves and added a new layer of creativity that has often been missing in Liverpool’s attack this season.
When the game relies on technique rather than physicality, the German should dominate. Once others catch up and match his understanding, his brilliance will be even more evident.
Together, the trio’s performance highlighted a more cohesive and dynamic system compared to the usual reliance on Salah’s individual brilliance.
Alexander Isak had a breakthrough against West Ham
Alexander Isak had a breakthrough against West Ham (Image: Getty Images)
While Salah remains Liverpool’s second-highest scorer this season behind Hugo Ekitike, his omission could now spark a dilemma for Arne Slot.
With Wirtz and Isak enjoying career-best performances for the club, Slot has new tactical options and greater flexibility in selecting his attacking lineup.
The challenge will be balancing the need for results with managing the club’s star forward, who may now face increased competition for a starting role.
Liverpool’s trip to the London Stadium may well mark the beginning of a new, more balanced attacking approach—one that doesn’t rely solely on Salah and allows emerging talents like Isak and Wirtz to flourish. For now, though, the breakthrough of Isak has given both the manager and fans plenty to consider.
The strong showing from Liverpool's forward line also gives Slot a viable attacking option ahead of Salah’s upcoming Africa Cup of Nations duty later this month.
With the Egyptian set to be absent, Liverpool now has a combination that can step up and maintain momentum without losing the Reds' attacking threat.