Big Question for Arne Slot
Liverpool’s record signing Alexander Isak could finally make his debut in Wednesday’s Champions League clash with Atletico Madrid — but the real question is whether he’ll start or only feature from the bench.
The £125m striker has had a disrupted summer, missing Newcastle’s pre-season before completing his move to Anfield. Since then, his game time has been managed carefully, with just 18 minutes for Sweden during the recent international break.
🗣️ Alexander Isak could play 45 minutes against Atletico Madrid... pic.twitter.com/GYmpz5xm37
— This Is Anfield (@thisisanfield) September 15, 2025
Slot Drops a Hint
Head coach Arne Slot has been cautious in his updates, stressing that Isak isn’t ready for a full schedule of matches yet. “We got him from Newcastle in a state where his pre-season is going to start now,” Slot explained. “He needs proper training minutes before he can handle playing twice in three days.”
Slot admitted Isak could play “45 as a minimum, maybe more” this week, but made clear that his minutes will be restricted. If he gets significant game time against Atletico, it’s unlikely he’ll play much, if at all, in Saturday’s Merseyside derby against Everton.
Isak in action 🎯#TeamPixel | #Ad pic.twitter.com/0h6ujzgyUx
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) September 10, 2025
Risk vs Reward
Liverpool are desperate to unleash their new striker, especially with a front three of Salah, Ekitike and Isak looking mouth-watering on paper. But the club don’t want to risk rushing him back, knowing how vital he could be in the title race.
For now, it looks like Isak may have to settle for a role off the bench against Atletico, with a view to gradually increasing his minutes in the coming weeks. Starting him from the outset would be a gamble — one Liverpool seem reluctant to take.
Our View
Will he start on Wednesday? The signs point to no. Slot’s comments suggest Liverpool will use him cautiously, most likely introducing him in the second half. But even a 30–45 minute cameo from Isak would be a huge moment for fans who have been waiting to see their £125m striker in red.
The real excitement will come later in the season — when he’s fully fit and ready to lead the line week in, week out.
Kick-off Time and Venue
- Fixture: Liverpool vs Atletico Madrid
- Date: Wednesday 17 September 2025
- Kick-off time: 8:00pm (UK time)
- Venue: Anfield, Liverpool
Atletico will travel to Anfield, the 61,276-capacity stadium renowned for its famous European nights. Slot’s men already have happy memories at the ground, having beaten Real Madrid 2-0 there in last season’s league phase.
How to Watch in the UK
- TV channels: TNT Sports 1 and TNT Sports Ultimate will show the game live in the UK.
- Online streaming: Available via Discovery+ for subscribers with the TNT Sports package.
- Highlights: Goals, red cards and key moments will be posted on TNT Sports’ X account during the game, with full highlights later on the TNT Sports YouTube channel and Liverpool’s ALL RED video service after the final whistle.
