Image Credits: Imago Images
Alexander Isak scored his fourth goal in five Premier League games this season in Sunday’s win at Bournemouth, maintaining Andoni Iraola’s unbeaten start as Liverpool head coach.
The Sweden international is second only to Manchester City striker Erling Haaland in the Premier League scoring charts and has already surpassed his injury-hit debut-season tally following his British-record £125million move from Newcastle United last September.
Despite Isak’s impressive start, Iraola wants more from his striker. According to the Daily Mail’s Lewis Steele, the Liverpool boss wants his team to play with greater intensity, pressing high and giving opponents little time to recover.
Iraola has been impressed by young forward Lewis Koumas, particularly his work off the ball, and has used the academy player as an example for Isak.
The Spaniard wants Isak to lead the press with greater intensity, become more involved in build-up play and develop a stronger understanding with Florian Wirtz.
Iraola does not treat Isak differently because of his price tag and has been unafraid to show him clips of academy forward Koumas, who sets the standard for off-the-ball work.
Iraola has also demanded more from Koumas with the ball at his feet, with the youngster making several loose touches against Bournemouth.
The Liverpool boss believes every player can improve, regardless of their status or price tag. He also wants his forwards to work until they are exhausted, allowing fresh players to come on and finish games.
When Liverpool broke their club transfer record to sign Alexander Isak from Newcastle United for £125million last summer, expectations were sky-high.
However, his first season at Anfield was disrupted by injuries, affecting both his rhythm and form. The 2026/27 campaign has brought a different story, with Isak looking sharp, confident and dangerous once again.
If his current form continues, Isak could be on course to justify Liverpool’s significant investment and re-establish himself as one of the Premier League’s leading forwards.
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