Former Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak has dismissed concerns over his difficult debut season at Liverpool, insisting he is fully focused on his performances for Sweden at the World Cup. The 26-year-old has made a bright start to the tournament, scoring one goal and providing three assists in Sweden's opening two Group F matches.
Struggles at Anfield
Isak joined Liverpool from Newcastle United in September 2025 for a British record fee of £125 million. However, his first campaign at Anfield was plagued by fitness and injury issues, limiting him to just four goals in 22 appearances across all competitions. The striker's form suffered after he effectively went on strike at Newcastle last summer to force through the move.
Despite these setbacks, Isak has rediscovered his form on the international stage, resembling the player who terrorised Premier League defences during his time at Newcastle. Speaking about his club struggles, Isak said: "Club team and national team are two very separate things. When I joined the national team, I had absolutely no thoughts about anything other than Sweden and the World Cup."
Positive Mindset
Isak emphasised that he is not dwelling on his Liverpool difficulties. "It's clear that it's nice to have a good World Cup, and you want to do it even better all the time. I feel like I'm in a good place now. And hopefully I can continue to do well," he added. "Now I feel good, very good. But it's hard to put your finger on what your maximum is, you never know. But I have nothing to complain about right now when it comes to my physical status."
Sweden's World Cup Campaign
Sweden, managed by Graham Potter, currently sit third in Group F with three points, one point behind Japan and the Netherlands. After a 5-1 win over Tunisia, they suffered a 5-1 defeat to the Dutch. Sweden face Japan in their final group game in Dallas in the early hours of Friday morning, with Isak and Newcastle's Anthony Elanga expected to start.
Isak has formed a productive partnership with Arsenal forward Viktor Gyokeres, and he is enjoying a more creative role for his country. "It's felt good," Isak said. "It's worked well in the matches. It's clear that you're a bit more of a playmaker, playing others forward instead of being the one making the deep runs yourself. But I'm enjoying it there. We are two talented players who want the best for the team. We get along really well, just like the whole team."
