Alexander Isak: From Transfer Saga to Smiles in Stockholm

It’s been a long summer for Alexander Isak. After 14 weeks training alone to force his £125m move from Newcastle to Liverpool, the Swedish striker finally looked relieved—and genuinely happy—when he joined up with his national team in Stockholm.

Sweden coach Jon Dahl Tomasson was quick to notice the difference: “He's smiling. Have you seen his face? He's so happy to be here. That tells you a lot about how much he really likes being in a group.”

After a draining late-night arrival at the team hotel, Isak was eager to train. He jumped down the final steps from the gym, grinning and clearly champing at the bit to be out on the pitch with his teammates.

Isak has made it clear he wants to play in Sweden’s upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Slovenia and Kosovo. Tomasson calls him a game changer but, in consultation with Liverpool’s staff, promises not to rush him: “He is a game changer. But can he play 90 minutes? Of course not. We have a plan.”

While Liverpool fans won’t see Isak in action until at least next Sunday against Burnley, his time with Sweden is providing valuable preparation—both physically and mentally—for his much-anticipated debut in red.