Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher has raised an alarming concern about Alexander Isak and his future at Anfield, questioning whether the Premier League's all-time record signing will ever justify his staggering fee. The Swedish striker, who joined Liverpool from Newcastle for £125 million last summer, has endured a nightmarish debut season on Merseyside.
Isak's Struggles This Season
Isak, 26, netted his fourth goal for the club in Saturday's 3-1 victory at home to Crystal Palace. His appearance against the Eagles represented his third start since returning from the leg fracture he sustained against Tottenham in December. Nevertheless, a considerable journey lies ahead before the Swede can be deemed to have warranted his price tag.
Carragher expressed deep concern, noting that in his experience, no player truly flourished at Liverpool after a poor maiden campaign. "[The big-spending summer] hasn't worked," he told the Liverpool Echo. "It might work in the future because I don't think you can judge every signing in the first year. But I've said this before; my experience as a Liverpool player, every player who came to the club, I can't remember one who didn't really do much in his first season, and then was a revelation afterwards. Isak hasn't got going. He obviously got the injury, but he didn't look great to start with."
Unique Circumstances
Isak's situation is rather unique, with several factors to consider. Arne Slot's squad were navigating a period of transition following their Premier League triumph last season, and integrating £446 million worth of fresh talent has presented its own set of complications. The striker's leg injury towards the end of 2026 further dealt a blow to his prospects, essentially rendering this campaign a lost cause as the side struggled even more without him.
What Liverpool Need Next Season
With that in mind, Champions League-winner Carragher offered his thoughts on what must happen this summer to mount a renewed title challenge. "In terms of what Liverpool need to do next season, well obviously they need to replace [Mohamed] Salah," he added. "I think for me, three players need to come straight into the team. You can't go on and buy five players into the team. Liverpool bought a lot of players last summer, so they are not going to buy a load this summer."
Broader Team Issues
The declining form of Salah and, on occasion, Virgil van Dijk, combined with Alisson's fitness problems, have held Liverpool back at times. Those three figures alone have been so vital to the Reds' recent period of success that it stands to reason the team should struggle when they're either out of sorts or unavailable. Yet it's hard to fault supporters for feeling that excuse only stretches so far given a £446 million summer splurge.
Risk of Historic Flop
While Isak may be afforded some leeway for his disappointing debut campaign, Liverpool run the risk of overseeing the most embarrassing flop signing in Premier League history unless there is a dramatic turnaround next season. Carragher's warning serves as a stark reminder of the high stakes surrounding the Swedish international's future at Anfield.
