In a move highlighting growing security concerns amongst elite athletes, Liverpool's star forward Alexander Isak has invested a substantial £30,000 in a highly-trained guard dog. This decision comes in the wake of serious death threats the player received while on international duty with Sweden.
A Protective Measure After Vile Abuse
The need for enhanced personal security became starkly apparent for Isak just over two months ago. Following a poor start to Sweden's World Cup qualifying campaign in September, tensions boiled over amongst some supporters. The situation escalated dramatically when several players, including Isak, were subjected to vile death threats on social media.
The abuse was so severe that the Swedish FA deemed it to have 'crossed the line,' with their head of security, Martin Fredman, confirming that around ten of the most threatening comments were reported to the police. This frightening experience appears to have been a key driver behind Isak's decision to bolster his personal security off the pitch.
The 'Fabulous Beast' Joining the Isak Family
Isak sourced his new canine protector from the specialist company Phoenix Dogs. The firm has publicly welcomed the footballer, tagging him in a social media post that featured a picture of the dog amidst autumn leaves. They described the Dobermann as 'beautiful inside and out' and a 'truly fabulous beast', indicating that the player has acquired a female dog.
This purchase places Isak amongst a growing number of Premier League footballers who have turned to protection dogs to safeguard their homes and families. The trend has gained momentum following a spate of terrifying break-ins targeting high-profile players.
A Wider Trend in Footballer Security
The issue of home security is a pressing one in the football world. Most notably, England winger Raheem Sterling had to leave the 2022 World Cup in Qatar after armed raiders broke into his Surrey home while his family were inside, making off with an estimated £300,000 in watches and jewellery. Sterling later confronted masked burglars in a separate, terrifying incident.
In response to these risks, stars like Jack Grealish, Marcus Rashford, and Kyle Walker have also invested in guard dogs. Grealish, for instance, posed with his £25,000 protection dog last year, highlighting the practical steps players are taking for peace of mind.
On-Field Challenges for the Reds' Signing
Isak's off-field security measures come during a period of adaptation on the pitch. His £125 million summer move from Newcastle was fraught with controversy, angering Magpies fans as he forced his way out of the club. His start at Liverpool has been mixed, with a lack of pre-season affecting his fitness.
So far, he has scored just one goal for the Reds—against Southampton in the Carabao Cup. Manager Arne Slot has admitted that Isak will need to be played into fitness during the busy period ahead, acknowledging that a '100 per cent fit Alexander Isak is a big, big, big plus for this team.'
While he works to find his best form for Liverpool, it is clear that ensuring his safety and that of his loved ones away from the stadium has become an immediate and costly priority.
