Liverpool's Dream XI: How Alexander Isak Could Transform Klopp's Attack
Acquiring two elite forwards in one transfer window? Liverpool are channeling their 1990s approach.
The reigning Premier League titleholders have launched their most ambitious summer campaign following last season's success, apparently determined to establish Manchester City-style supremacy over the league for the foreseeable future.
They've already revitalized their fullback positions and secured two highly sought-after Bundesliga offensive talents in Florian Wirtz and Hugo Ekitiké, though it's been clear the Reds weren't finished in the transfer market. To complete their business, Liverpool are poised to unveil their marquee signing.
The Alexander Isak transfer story has featured dramatic developments, with the Swedish striker determined to leave his current situation in the North East to join Arne Slot's championship squad. Ekitiké's impressive early performances on Merseyside sparked discussions about whether a massive investment in Isak remained essential, but Liverpool have parted ways with three forwards this summer and generated sufficient funds to enable the record-setting purchase on Transfer Deadline Day.
Nevertheless, Slot faces a significant challenge in managing the abundance of attacking talent now available. Here's how they might deploy with Isak's arrival.
Pairing with Hugo Ekitiké
Following Ekitiké's acquisition during the Isak negotiations, Slot mentioned his vision of the French forward operating alongside another striker. With the Swedish goal-scorer now joining at Anfield, many anticipate the duo forming a partnership.
Therefore, we might witness Slot implementing a 4-2-4 formation, which frequently represented Liverpool's in-possession structure last campaign. Ekitiké flourished playing beside Omar Marmoush at Eintracht Frankfurt in the opening months of 2024–25, and he's already demonstrated his versatility as a complete forward during his initial period with the Reds.
Nevertheless, both Isak and Ekitiké tend to gravitate toward the left wing, potentially creating offensive imbalance if deployed together. Slot must also integrate Wirtz into the lineup, who would presumably function from the left while having license to move centrally when Milos Kerkez pushes forward from left-back.
Liverpool must maximize Wirtz's effectiveness in the left half-space, allowing him to interchange positions with the front pair. However, the corresponding right-side space requires occupation. Might Mohamed Salah tuck inside or could Jeremie Frimpong provide an overlapping threat?
Furthermore, we'd expect Isak and Ekitiké to serve as linking players in this setup, with complementary movement crucial to their effectiveness. When one drops deep, the other should look to stretch the defensive line. Fortunately, both possess this capability.
Solo Striker Role
Liverpool's two new forwards share similar characteristics, providing Slot flexibility to implement a highly adaptable system regardless of formation.
While Ekitiké has already succeeded as the primary striker, Isak arrives as the intended star player. Should Slot reject the aggressive two-forward approach and maintain the 4-2-3-1 formation used since his appointment began, Isak would lead the attack. Ekitiké would probably replace Cody Gakpo, who recently signed a new deal and remains very much in contention, on the left wing, essentially serving as Luis Díaz's successor.
Isak has predominantly operated as a central striker throughout his professional journey and will be tasked with anchoring Liverpool's offensive play, despite having a legendary player on the right flank.
Isak Operating Wide
Ekitiké might be more naturally suited to wide play under Slot, given his exceptional ball skills and ability to beat defenders in one-on-one situations. However, there will certainly be instances when Isak moves wide, switching positions with his French teammate.
The Swede's remarkable assist for Jacob Murphy two seasons back at Goodison Park resulted from an elegant sequence along the touchline and goal line. Isak also excels in confined areas and proves highly effective when facing isolated defenders.
With Kerkez advancing from left-back and Wirtz favoring that side of the field, numerous connections and combinations will emerge. Liverpool will overpower most opponents through their sheer concentration of talent on the left, and the central striker will benefit greatly from their ability to unlock defenses and disrupt organized blocks.