Liverpool record signing Alexander Isak is expected to lead Sweden's attack as they begin their 2026 World Cup campaign in the early hours of Monday morning. The Swedish side, managed by former West Ham United, Chelsea, and Brighton & Hove Albion boss Graham Potter, face a crucial Group E opener against Tunisia at Monterrey Stadium (3am BST kick-off). With matches against the Netherlands and Japan to follow, a strong start is imperative.
Smicer's Concerns for Isak
However, even if Sweden were to exit early, Liverpool legend Vladimir Smicer believes that would benefit Isak. The 2005 Champions League hero, who scored in the final and the penalty shootout in Istanbul, expressed his views on the £125m striker's fitness struggles.
"To be honest, I'd prefer if Alexander Isak wasn't playing in the World Cup," Smicer told Casinostugan. "He should have two or three weeks' rest after the season and then start a six-week preparation for next season. I think that's what he was missing this season: being fit for Liverpool. Even when he came back, he injured himself again."
Isak missed most of last season's pre-season after his record move from Newcastle United, forcing him to play catch-up. A serious leg injury sidelined him for nearly four months, and he ended his debut campaign with just four goals.
World Cup Risk
Smicer added: "Maybe the training camp helps him a little bit, but I don't think he'll be a hundred percent fit for the World Cup. The advantage is that he'd be fresh because his body is not tired, but I don't know if his body is ready for a hundred percent effort. I hope so, but I don't believe it."
"From a Liverpool perspective, I’d prefer Sweden to go out quickly. Then he can have a rest and join the Liverpool training camp before the season."
Despite his concerns, Smicer remains optimistic about Isak's long-term potential: "I still believe we bought the right player and he will score many goals for Liverpool. I'm not sure about his fitness and I hope he will not get injured in the World Cup. I pray he will be okay and have a good World Cup for his confidence."
Alisson's World Cup Chances
Smicer also discussed Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker, who made a late save in Brazil's 1-1 draw with Morocco. He believes Brazil, under Carlo Ancelotti, have a strong chance: "I think the Brazilian and Argentinian teams have good squads. I don't know about the Netherlands... So not Sweden with Isak. I'll go for Brazil, they are a dangerous team with an experienced coach in Carlo Ancelotti, Alisson has the best chance of the Liverpool players."
