Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has played down any prospect of Alexander Isak featuring in this weekend’s meeting with Newcastle United, delivering a stark update on the striker’s recovery as both clubs prepare for a crucial Premier League encounter.
Speaking ahead of the clash, Slot made it clear that Isak remains some distance from a return to action and will not face his former side.
Isak’s situation has been one of the more striking subplots of the season. Newcastle sanctioned the Sweden international’s summer exit for a fee in the region of £130 million after the player pushed for a move to Anfield, funds the Magpies later reinvested in Yoane Wissa and Nick Woltemade.
Yet Liverpool have barely been able to integrate their marquee signing, with injuries preventing Isak from building rhythm or consistency since his arrival.
Slot confirmed that the forward is still at a very early stage of his rehabilitation, revealing that Isak has only recently come out of a protective walking aid. The Liverpool boss acknowledged that the timeline remains lengthy, reinforcing the club’s expectation that patience will be required before the striker is anywhere near match fitness.
“He’s not even on the pitch yet. I think it’s called a walker, he’s just out of his walker, so that tells you that he’s not on the pitch and not expecting him on the pitch today or tomorrow in terms of his recovery work,” Slot said.
“That’s going to take a while before he’s back, as we knew.”
The 26-year-old is recovering from a fractured fibula combined with ankle ligament damage, an injury setback that has inevitably raised questions among supporters about whether he can justify his hefty price tag.
In his absence, Liverpool have had to adjust their attacking structure, while Newcastle, meanwhile, have leaned heavily on Hugo Ekitike to supply goals following Isak’s departure.
Sunday’s fixture carries added significance for Slot’s side, who are still searching for their first top-flight victory of 2026.
The Reds will view the visit of Newcastle as an opportunity to reset momentum, particularly with the Magpies arriving after a 2-0 home defeat to Aston Villa last weekend.
