Liverpool’s title defence has stumbled, their attack has misfired, and their new £125 million striker is under growing scrutiny. But amid criticism and questions about his explosive but inconsistent start at Anfield, one unexpected voice has come forward to defend Alexander Isak — Amanda Staveley, the former Newcastle United chief who once helped bring him to English football.
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With Isak scoring just once since joining Liverpool on a dramatic deadline day move, many wondered whether the Swede was beginning to struggle under the pressure of his price tag and the circumstances surrounding his exit from Newcastle. But Staveley insists Liverpool have acquired a “truly extraordinary player” — and she still believes he will explode into form sooner rather than later.
Isak Arrived as a Superstar — So Why Isn’t He Firing Yet?
Isak scored 23 goals and added six assists for Newcastle last season — elite output that convinced Liverpool to break the bank.
Liverpool fans expected fireworks the moment Isak stepped onto the pitch. After all, this was the striker who smashed in 23 goals for Eddie Howe’s side last season, a player hailed for his silky movement, elite finishing, and deceptive strength.
But since forcing through a move to Merseyside, Isak has faced a challenging start:
Just one goal — in a Carabao Cup match against Southampton
No 90-minute appearance yet due to fitness issues
No pre-season after going on strike to push for his Liverpool transfer
Isak openly admitted he felt “promises were broken” at Newcastle, which led to his extreme decision to refuse training until the deal was completed. While the transfer eventually materialised, the fallout left him behind the rest of Arne Slot’s squad in conditioning and tactical integration.
Liverpool’s possession-heavy, high-pressing style requires physical sharpness and rhythm. Without a proper build-up, Isak has looked like a striker still playing himself back to full speed.
Staveley Breaks Her Silence — and Sends a Message to Liverpool Fans
Amanda Staveley insists there is no bad blood — and still believes Isak will thrive in Liverpool’s system.
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In a recent Sky Sports interview, Staveley and husband Mehrdad Ghodoussi were asked whether they still held admiration for Isak despite the difficult ending to his Newcastle tenure.
Her answer was clear — and surprisingly warm:
“We love Alex and we know he’s going to do really well at Liverpool. He’s a great player — Liverpool have got an extraordinary player.”
It marks the first time Staveley has addressed his exit since the dramatic summer saga. While Newcastle supporters may still feel bitterness, the former Magpies chief preferred to focus on the positives: the club’s good form, their own new strikers, and their long-term project.
Staveley also dismissed talk that Profit & Sustainability Rules were to blame for Isak’s departure:
“No, no. The PSR rules are helpful and we welcome them. They’re there for fair competition.”
Her stance suggests Newcastle’s decision to sell was strategic — not forced.
Newcastle Already Seeing Mixed Returns on Their New Strikers
Nick Woltemade has hit the ground running at St. James’ Park with four goals in eight games.
Newcastle wasted no time preparing for life after Isak. They brought in Nick Woltemade and Yoane Wissa as big-money replacements.
Their early impact has been mixed:
Nick Woltemade
4 goals in 8 league appearances
Crucial strikes in wins over Wolves and Nottingham Forest
Looks comfortable in Howe’s system
Yoane Wissa
Yet to make his debut
Went on strike at Brentford to force the move
Suffered a knee injury while on international duty
Newcastle legend Alan Shearer weighed in on Wissa’s dilemma regarding AFCON selection, urging caution but acknowledging the emotional weight of representing one’s country.
Liverpool’s Recent Form Has Only Intensified the Spotlight on Isak
Liverpool have lost five of their last six league games — a worrying trend in their title defence.
Liverpool’s wider struggle has made Isak’s slow start even more glaring. Slot’s side have:
Lost five of their last six league matches
Scored just once during that stretch
Fallen eight points behind Arsenal after only 11 games
The chemistry in attack is fading, and the goalscoring burden — one Isak was expected to share — has instead exposed Liverpool’s fragility in key moments.
Their upcoming home match against Nottingham Forest is more than just an opportunity to bounce back. It is a test of character, resilience, and whether Slot’s system can finally click with its new attacking spearhead.
Can Isak Turn It Around? All Signs Point to Yes
Despite the noise, pressure, and headlines, Isak remains one of Europe’s most gifted forwards. His technical quality, movement, and intelligence are undeniable. Once fully fit and settled, he has the attributes to transform Liverpool’s attack.
Amanda Staveley’s backing was more than a polite gesture — it was an acknowledgment that world-class players do not lose their ability overnight. Liverpool knew what they were buying, and the club still expects fireworks.
Isak may have started slowly, but the story of his Liverpool career is far from written.
And the Premier League has learned one lesson many times before: Class always rises.
