Graham Potter backs Alexander Isak after difficult first season at Liverpool
By OnzeActu · · 2 min read
Sweden coach Graham Potter has renewed his confidence in Alexander Isak, the author of a difficult season of adaptation under the colors of Liverpool. Despite the difficulties encountered since his record transfer from Newcastle, Isak remains a pillar for Sweden's ambitions at the next World Cup.
Alexander Isak, transferred to Liverpool for around 145 million euros from Newcastle United, has had a turbulent first season in England. The Swedish striker has been hampered by injuries and has struggled to fully express his potential in his new colors. However, he can count on the unwavering support of Graham Potter, coach of Sweden, one of the Netherlands' opponents at the next 2026 World Cup.
“It didn’t go the way he would have liked,” Potter admitted in an interview with The Guardian. “We sometimes believe that a player will automatically shine as soon as he signs for a new club, but the adjustment often takes time. It is not the quality of Isak that is in question, but the adaptation to the demands of the club and to a new environment. His qualities remain intact, he is a great player. »
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Potter, who has known Isak since his professional debut, stresses the importance of giving him time to integrate into the team. “I met Alex when he was only sixteen. We thought we had a chance because their starting striker was absent and a sixteen year old was making his debut... Finally, he scored and we lost 2-0, a great lesson for me! » Potter recalled.
The Swedish coach is now looking towards the future with optimism, banking on the complementarity between Isak and Viktor Gyökeres to energize the attack during the next World Cup: “They have different profiles and that can be a strength for our team. We can't wait to see this duo evolve together. »
Despite Isak's difficult start at Liverpool, Sweden has high hopes for their striker for the 2026 World Cup, proof that talent does not disappear at the first hurdle.