Alexander Isak, Liverpool's high-profile signing, was notably absent from the squad that faced Burnley in their recent Premier League encounter. The £125 million striker's exclusion has sparked discussions among fans and pundits alike.

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has emphasized the need for a cautious approach with Isak, who joined the team from Newcastle United on deadline day. Isak's pre-season was significantly disrupted. He trained separately from Newcastle's main squad amid transfer speculations. This resulted in him missing Newcastle's pre-season games and the first three Premier League matches.

Slot highlighted that Isak needs a "proper week of training" to achieve the necessary fitness levels. The decision to leave him out of the Burnley match was made to prioritize a structured training regime over sporadic playing time. Slot assured fans that Isak would be involved in the subsequent game against Atlético Madrid, indicating a gradual integration into the team.

Jamie Carragher, commenting on Sky Sports, echoed Slot's sentiments, noting Isak's need for additional training. Carragher emphasized Isak's importance as a central forward for Liverpool, comparing his expected impact to that of Mohamed Salah. He also mentioned other attacking options for Liverpool, including Hugo Ekitiké, Cody Gakpo and Florian Wirtz.

Isak's limited action for Sweden during the international break also played a role in Liverpool's decision. He played just 20 minutes off the bench in a World Cup qualifier. Slot praised the Swedish manager, Jon Dahl Tomasson, for managing Isak's playing time responsibly to avoid potential injuries.

Slot has acknowledged that Isak missed a significant portion of team training, estimating it to be three to four months. The focus is now on gradually building up his fitness and integrating him into the team's system. Slot has cautioned fans not to expect Isak to play full 90-minute matches consistently in the coming weeks. He pointed out that Isak's long-term six-year contract allows for a patient and measured approach to his integration.

Liverpool's starting lineup against Burnley featured Alisson in goal, with Szoboszlai, Van Dijk, Konaté, and Kerkez in defense. The midfield comprised Wirtz, Gravenberch, and Mac Allister, while the attack was led by Salah, Gakpo, and Ekitiké. Curtis Jones was absent due to an injury sustained in the previous game.