Hold on a second. Before we dive into this fascinating tactical discussion, we need to address the elephant in the room: Alexander Isak doesn’t play for Liverpool. The Swedish striker is currently tearing it up for Newcastle United, where he’s been one of the Premier League’s most lethal finishers.
So what’s this article really about? Well, the question “How will Liverpool cope without Isak?” likely refers to one of two scenarios: either Liverpool was heavily linked with signing Isak and missed out, or this is exploring how the Reds are managing without a striker of Isak’s profile in their squad.
Let’s explore both angles and discuss what Alexander Isak would bring to Liverpool, how the Reds are currently coping without that type of striker, and what it means for their title aspirations.
The Alexander Isak Phenomenon at Newcastle
First, let’s appreciate what makes Isak so special. Since joining Newcastle from Real Sociedad, the Swedish international has evolved into one of the Premier League’s most complete strikers.
Isak brings a rare combination of attributes that make him the prototype modern number nine. He’s got the pace to stretch defenses, the technical ability to link play, the physicality to hold the ball up, and crucially, he’s clinical in front of goal. Those are exactly the qualities that would make him perfect for Liverpool’s high-intensity, pressing system under Arne Slot.
His movement is intelligent, constantly finding pockets of space between defensive lines. His finishing is ruthless, capable of scoring with either foot and his head. And perhaps most importantly for a team like Liverpool, he works incredibly hard off the ball, pressing from the front and creating opportunities through sheer effort.
Why Liverpool Need an Isak-Type Striker
Liverpool’s forward line has undergone significant transformation in recent seasons. The departure of key attacking players and the evolution of tactical systems means the Reds have been searching for the right balance up front.
Under Arne Slot’s management, Liverpool have shown they can score goals through collective effort and tactical superiority. However, there are moments in tight games where having a genuine goal-scoring number nine makes all the difference. That’s where someone like Isak becomes invaluable.
The Current Striking Situation at Anfield
Liverpool currently rely on a combination of options in the central striking role. Darwin Núñez brings chaos, energy, and an unpredictable element that can terrorize defenses. However, his inconsistency in front of goal has been well-documented. One game he looks unplayable, the next he’s snatching at chances.
Diogo Jota offers something different when fit, bringing intelligent movement and a more composed finishing touch. The problem? Jota’s injury record has been frustrating, leaving Liverpool short of options at crucial moments in the season.
Cody Gakpo and Luis Díaz can operate centrally but are arguably more effective coming in from wide positions. Mohamed Salah remains world-class but is most devastating from the right wing rather than as a traditional striker.
This is where the Isak comparison becomes relevant. Liverpool don’t currently have that reliable, week-in-week-out goal-scorer who combines elite finishing with all-around striker play.
How Liverpool Are Actually Coping
Despite not having an Isak-type striker, Liverpool are managing remarkably well. Arne Slot has implemented a system that doesn’t rely solely on one striker carrying the goal-scoring burden.
The Collective Approach
Slot’s Liverpool spread the goal-scoring responsibility across multiple players. Salah remains the primary threat, but contributions come from midfield runners, inverted wingers, and overlapping full-backs. This multi-dimensional attacking approach makes Liverpool difficult to defend against because you can’t just mark one player out of the game.
The Dutch manager has also refined Liverpool’s build-up play, creating more high-quality chances through superior positioning and tactical discipline. When you create better opportunities, even less clinical finishers can score regularly.
Tactical Flexibility
One advantage of not having a traditional number nine is tactical flexibility. Liverpool can adjust their shape depending on the opponent, sometimes playing without a recognized striker and overwhelming teams with fluid attacking movement.
This system has proven effective in many games, particularly against teams that sit deep. However, against well-organized defenses or in tight cup ties, having that clinical finisher can be the difference between winning and drawing.
The Transfer Market Reality
Here’s where things get complicated. Alexander Isak, even if Liverpool wanted him, would command an astronomical transfer fee. Newcastle are under no pressure to sell, Isak is happy at St. James’ Park, and the Magpies have Champions League ambitions of their own.
Reports have suggested any potential deal would require over £100 million, potentially making Isak one of the most expensive strikers in football history. For Liverpool’s ownership and transfer strategy, that represents a significant gamble, even for a player of Isak’s quality.
Alternative Options
If Liverpool decide they do need an elite striker, they’ll likely need to look at alternative targets. The transfer market offers several interesting options:
Victor Osimhen brings proven Champions League pedigree and elite finishing, though he comes with his own price tag complications and personality considerations.
Evan Ferguson represents a younger option with enormous potential, though Brighton would demand a premium for their prized asset.
Ivan Toney offers Premier League experience and leadership qualities, potentially at a more reasonable price point given his contract situation.
Each option brings different qualities and comes with different financial and tactical considerations.
Can Liverpool Win Without an Elite Striker?
This might be the most interesting question of all. History suggests that most Premier League champions have at least one world-class goal-scorer leading the line. However, there are exceptions.
Manchester City have won titles with a fluid front three rather than a traditional striker. Arsenal are currently competing without a prolific number nine, relying on collective goal contributions. The question is whether Liverpool can sustain a title challenge with their current options.
The Núñez Question
Much of Liverpool’s striker situation depends on Darwin Núñez’s development. If the Uruguayan can add consistency to his undeniable physical and technical gifts, Liverpool might not need to spend big on another striker.
Núñez’s work rate and movement are already elite. His finishing, while inconsistent, shows moments of genuine quality. If he can improve his decision-making and composure in front of goal, Liverpool might already have their Isak-type striker.
The Verdict: Managing Without Isak
So, how will Liverpool cope without Alexander Isak? The answer is: probably just fine, at least in the short term.
Arne Slot has proven himself to be an excellent tactical manager who can maximize the strengths of his available squad. Liverpool’s system doesn’t depend on one striker being brilliant every week, and their collective approach has proven effective.
However, there’s no denying that adding a striker of Isak’s caliber would elevate Liverpool to another level. In the tightest matches, against the best defensive units, having that clinical finisher can be decisive.
The reality is that Liverpool are competing for major honors without an Isak-type striker, and they’re doing it successfully. But the question remains: could they be even better with one?
Looking Forward
Liverpool’s transfer strategy will ultimately determine whether they address the striker position. If the right opportunity presents itself at the right price, FSG might sanction a move for an elite forward. If not, they’ll back Slot to continue succeeding with the options available.
What’s clear is that Liverpool aren’t going to panic-buy just for the sake of it. Any striker signing will need to fit the system, represent good value, and improve the squad significantly. Whether that’s Isak or someone else entirely, the Reds will be patient in their approach.
For now, Liverpool are coping without Isak by being excellent in almost every other department. Their midfield is strong, their defense is solid, and their attacking play creates chances consistently. Sometimes, that’s enough.
But on those nights when you need someone to produce magic from nothing, to score the goal that wins the tight game, to be that difference-maker? That’s when you miss having an Alexander Isak in your squad.