Liverpool are going through a difficult period, and Alexander Isak is paying the price. The Swede, Liverpool’s star striker, appears to be losing his edge, according to Joe Hart, the former England international goalkeeper and now a BBC pundit. For the former Manchester City player, Isak’s issue lies in his positioning: instead of staying up front to threaten opposing defenses, he too often drops back to receive the ball. A tendency, Hart argues, that betrays a lack of confidence in the striker.
Isak’s retreat, Liverpool’s lack of efficiency
Isak’s recent numbers at Liverpool fall short of his usual standards. The Swede, signed for his goal-scoring instinct and ability to play as a pivot, is struggling to recapture his previous form. His tendency to drop deep, which once helped him contribute to attacks, now seems to be working against him. Reds supporters, accustomed to his effectiveness in front of goal, are questioning his role in the current team. Joe Hart, who has witnessed both the highs and lows of Isak’s career, does not hesitate to highlight the Swede’s confidence issues. According to him, this loss of confidence translates into a less incisive, less decisive game. A diagnosis that echoes the struggles faced by other strikers in England, such as
Barcola at Liverpool or
Lamine Camara at Chelsea, whose performances are under intense scrutiny.
A solution to find for the Reds
Liverpool, locked in a tight Premier League title race, cannot afford to leave Isak in this slump. The Reds’ hierarchy has already shown ambition by signing offensive profiles, but the strike partnership remains a question mark. The club is relying on players like Mohamed Salah and Luis Díaz to compensate, but Isak’s inconsistency is weighing on the entire team.
Transfer window rumors could also play a role, with clubs like Arsenal or Manchester City closely monitoring potential moves. For Hart, the solution starts with Isak regaining his confidence. “He needs to reposition himself, stay up front, and resume his runs toward goal. That’s where he’s most dangerous,” he stressed. An analysis that sounds like advice for the Swedish striker—and a challenge for Liverpool in the weeks ahead.