'That trust isn't there' - how does Iraola get best out of Isak?

Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola faces early scrutiny over how to maximize the potential of summer signing Alexander Isak after the striker's uneven start to his Anfield career.

Isak, who cost Liverpool a club-record £125 million from Newcastle last summer, has struggled to replicate his scoring form since his move. The Sweden international scored just three Premier League goals in 14 appearances during his first season at Anfield, a stark contrast to his 44 goals in his previous two seasons in England.

Iraola’s first two games in charge ended in draws, including a 2-2 result against Nottingham Forest at Anfield. Isak was largely ineffective in the first half, managing only six touches, one accurate pass, and no shots. However, he rebounded in the second half, scoring his first goal of the season with a well-timed run to meet Cody Gakpo’s cross.

Former England goalkeeper Joe Hart, a pundit on *Match of the Day*, suggested that Liverpool’s midfield lacks the familiarity with Isak that he enjoyed at Newcastle. "At Newcastle everything flowed through him. That trust just isn't there at the moment," Hart said. "At Liverpool that trust just isn't there—no-one is feeling it, and he isn't that central point."

The club hierarchy, including incoming vice-chairman Amit Bhatia, principal owner John Henry, and sporting director Richard Hughes, were present for Iraola’s first home Premier League match. Their presence underscored the high expectations placed on Isak and the urgency for Iraola to find solutions.

Iraola acknowledged the challenges, stating, "As an attacking force it isn't flowing for Liverpool." Liverpool dominated possession in both of their opening games—60% against Newcastle and 70% against Forest—but struggled to break down deep-lying defenses. Their inability to lead at any point this season has made Isak’s role even more difficult, as his strengths in counter-attacking play are less effective against low blocks.

Former Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard described Isak’s goal against Forest as "big" for both the player’s confidence and the team’s morale. Yet, questions remain about Iraola’s long-term strategy. Hart suggested that Iraola must commit to building the team around Isak, given the striker’s record and the club’s significant investment.

With Mohamed Salah departing and Ollie Watkins sidelined, Isak is under increased pressure to deliver. He remains optimistic, saying, "Every striker wants to score in every game, but we take it one game at a time."

For now, Iraola must find a way to restore Isak’s effectiveness while addressing Liverpool’s broader attacking issues. The stakes are high, and the early signs suggest a critical period lies ahead for both the manager and the club-record signing.

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