Wayne Rooney raised concerns about Alexander Isak’s readiness long before the numbers became a talking point.
The former Manchester United forward questioned Isak’s fitness and preparation soon after his £125m move to Liverpool, and the early signs have not been promising.
Isak’s arrival came with huge expectations. Liverpool were hoping his pace, movement, and clinical finishing, which had impressed at Newcastle, would add something new to their attack.
But so far, he has looked short of confidence and has not found his place in a team that is still adapting to new ideas.
Wayne Rooney’s early warning about Alexander Isak
Rooney first spoke about Isak’s situation on the BBC’s Football Daily podcast before the wider football world had started to take notice.
His comments were not about rivalry; they came from experience, understanding how a lack of fitness can quickly show up at the top level.
“I wouldn’t play Isak; he hasn’t looked ready since coming from Newcastle. He hasn’t trained, hasn’t had a pre-season. It’s so important,” the former United star warned in October 2025.
He added: “It’s so difficult when you don’t have a pre-season. He might have done stuff by himself, but he’s paying the price for it. On performances, he doesn’t deserve to be playing ahead of Ekitike.
That point about missing pre-season has become more relevant with every game. Isak’s pressing, decision-making, and movement have all looked a step behind, something that has shown up in his numbers too.
He has yet to score from open play and has often looked out of sync with the rest of the front line.
The numbers back up Wayne Rooney’s concerns about Alexander Isak
Isak has managed just one goal in the Premier League so far. For a £125m signing brought in to lead the line, it is a slow start.
His expected goals tally suggests there have been chances, but the confidence he showed at Newcastle has not followed him to Anfield.
Liverpool’s shape has also changed, with Darwin Nunez and Cody Gakpo sharing time through the middle. Isak’s habit of drifting wide or dropping deep has not quite fit into how the new manager wants to play, leaving him caught between roles.
At this stage, Rooney’s comments look more like insight than criticism. He spotted a player still trying to catch up physically and mentally.
Unless Isak can turn things around soon, questions over that record fee will only grow louder.
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