Alexander Isak has seriously struggled at Liverpool since his big-money move from Newcastle United last year, but he has been urged to remain positive about his future chances
Alexander Isak of Liverpool during the Premier League match Newcastle United vs Liverpool at St. James's Park in Newcastle, United Kingdom, on August 23, 2026. (Photo by Alfie Cosgrove/News Images/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Alexander Isak has been offered some encouragement from Roberto Firmino(Image: Getty Images)
Roberto Firmino reckons Alexander Isak can still have a successful career at Liverpool despite his slow start at Anfield.
The Sweden international, 26, joined the Reds for close to $170 million in what was a British transfer record when Newcastle United lost their wantaway striker who only had eyes for Liverpool. Isak pushed for his move but it has been a rough ride for the forward, who has only managed four goals in total from 23 outings.
The attacker has also had to contend with injury after a severe fractured ankle and fibula. Liverpool refused to rush the player back and that cost him some pivotal moments for his new club, but ex-Reds star Firmino believes confidence is king with a striker in front of goal.
The Brazilian is adamant the frontman, while down in the dumps right now, will roar back and become a top striker with the club. He just has to show patience and optimism in the face of adversity.
“Alex has to stay positive,” Firmino told the Athletic. “All strikers go through difficult periods, but he’s already proved in previous years that he’s one of the best in the Premier League.
“There’s always pressure when you play for a club as big as Liverpool, especially when they pay a lot of money to sign you, but he just needs to relax, and I’m sure the goals will come.
“You can’t judge him on last season, because he had injuries and missed so many games. It was a tough season for the club in general. But this is a new start with a new manager, and I’m sure he will grow in confidence as he gets more used to the players around him and gets more chances.
Roberto Firmino
Roberto Firmino (Image: Getty Images)
“There is no better place to be a No 9, scoring goals and helping the team win games. Anfield is special, and as long as you always give everything for Liverpool, then the fans will stay right behind you. I believe in him.”
Isak was well short of confidence as he trudged around St James' Park on the opening day of the new Premier League season.
The Swede was on the periphery of the action for as long as he was on the pitch and even when he did create half-chances for himself, he failed to take them.
He also faced mountains of abuse from home supporters who branded him a "rat" before kick-off as Liverpool's bus arrived at the stadium.
It was a difficult moment for the player and one that would take a strong character to get over so early in the season. But he was unable to do so on the pitch during the 2-2 draw.
That performance led to Alan Shearer suggesting Isak should have taken the last minute, stoppage time penalty kick to level proceedings to silence the crowd who had jeered him for 90 minutes.
As it happened it was Dominik Szoboszlai who stepped up and converted from 12 yards.