Liverpool Boss Slot Urges Patience With Record Signing Isak

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has hailed new striker Alexander Isak as “maybe the best in the world,” but says fans will need patience as the club’s record £125m signing is eased back to full fitness.

The Premier League champions swooped for the Swedish forward from Newcastle on transfer deadline day, smashing the British transfer record and pushing their summer outlay beyond £400m.

Slot, however, warned that the 25-year-old — who has missed much of pre-season — will not be thrown straight into 90 minutes every game.

“He missed three or four months of team sessions, so now we have to build him up gradually,” Slot said ahead of Sunday’s clash with Burnley.
“Don’t expect him to play every single game for 90 minutes in the coming weeks.”

The Dutch coach praised Sweden boss Jon Dahl Tomasson for managing Isak’s workload during the international break, where he was limited to substitute appearances.

Liverpool had also pushed hard to sign Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace before the deal collapsed on deadline day. Slot admitted the Reds came close but insisted he is happy with his defensive options for now.

As for criticism from Newcastle fans upset at Isak’s departure, Slot brushed it aside:

“Sometimes you’re cheered, sometimes you’re criticised — it’s part of our lives. Now he’s a Liverpool player and I’m really happy with that.”

Liverpool, chasing a record 21st English league crown, have started the season perfectly under Slot, winning all three of their opening fixtures.