Alexander Isak Set for Liverpool Debut Against Atlético Madrid
Alexander Isak is poised to make his Liverpool debut in Wednesday's Champions League clash against Atlético Madrid at Anfield. Manager Arne Slot has named the Swedish international in his starting XI, marking a significant moment for the club's record signing.
Isak's Arrival and Initial Omission
Isak, who recently joined Liverpool from Newcastle United for a British-record £125 million ($171m) on transfer deadline day, was surprisingly left out of the matchday squad for Sunday's 1-0 victory over Burnley at Turf Moor. This absence fueled anticipation surrounding his first appearance in a Liverpool shirt.
Arne Slot's Pre-Match Comments
During his pre-match press conference on Tuesday, Liverpool boss Arne Slot hinted at Isak's potential involvement. He stated, "There is definitely a chance [he will play], because he is in the squad. Then there is a chance to play. Normally I would say 99.9 percent sure, but I can say it’s 100 percent sure he will not play 90 minutes. But he is part of the squad." Slot's words added to the excitement surrounding Isak's expected debut.
"It is already a Champions League game to look forward to but if people look forward to his playing time, that could mean that could happen tomorrow as well. The only thing that is sure is he will not play 90, and all the rest you will see tomorrow." - Arne Slot on Alexander Isak's potential playing time.
Atlético Madrid's Team News
While Liverpool fans eagerly await Isak's debut, Atlético Madrid faces injury concerns. Julian Alvarez is unavailable after being forced off during their weekend win over Villarreal. Additionally, Johnny Cardoso is sidelined with an ankle injury sustained in training.
Other absentees for the La Liga side include Thiago Almada, Alex Baena, and Jose Maria Gimenez. Despite these setbacks, Diego Simeone’s full 22-man squad has been confirmed for the trip to Liverpool.
Curtis Jones Injury Update and Wirtz Adaptation
Curtis Jones remains sidelined due to injury, but Slot anticipates the England midfielder will be available for the Merseyside derby against Everton on Saturday. Concerning Florian Wirtz, despite not registering a goal or assist in his first four Premier League matches, Slot is unfazed, attributing it to the difficulty of the opposition faced so far. He defends the new signings by stating "There's so much focus on Florian. But the ones who have stayed and are still in the team haven’t scored four goals or had 12 assists either.”