“His actions rarely worked” – Liverpool striker blasted with brutal 1/5 rating by international media

Liverpool striker Alexander Isak has come under heavy fire after receiving a shocking 1/5 rating from Swedish outlet Svenska Fans following Sweden’s 2–0 defeat to Switzerland in the World Cup qualifiers. The 26-year-old, who only recently completed a big-money move from Newcastle United to Liverpool, endured a frustrating evening where nothing seemed to go his way.

Isak, who has long been regarded as one of Scandinavia’s brightest attacking talents, looked off the pace for large portions of the game. His movement was energetic at times, but the final product was missing throughout the match. Despite one promising effort that struck the post, the striker’s overall contribution was deemed far below the expected standard for a player of his calibre and experience.

The match was viewed as an opportunity for Isak to rediscover his sharpness after a difficult start to life at Anfield. Having missed most of Liverpool’s pre-season due to his transfer negotiations and minor fitness issues, the forward has struggled to adapt to Arne Slot’s high-pressing, fluid attacking system. The international break was supposed to serve as a confidence booster, but it turned out to be another rough outing instead.

Svenska Fans did not hold back in their assessment of Isak’s performance. “Today’s team captain. Ran on many balls. Had a shot off the post that deserved better. Later won a duel and went through on goal at the end of the first half. But overall, he rarely succeeded with his actions,” the report read. It was a stinging critique that highlighted both the striker’s effort and his failure to convert it into meaningful moments.

This latest performance has raised concerns among Liverpool supporters, who were already questioning whether Isak could replicate his Newcastle United form at Anfield. During his time under Eddie Howe, the Swede established himself as one of the Premier League’s most composed finishers, scoring 21 goals in all competitions last season. However, his early Liverpool outings have been marred by inconsistency, with flashes of brilliance overshadowed by moments of indecision.

Confidence appears to be an issue for Isak at the moment. Several observers noted his hesitancy in front of goal and lack of conviction during key moments against Switzerland. Even though he was appointed team captain for the game — a sign of trust from Sweden’s coach — his leadership did not translate into performance. Fans and pundits alike are now questioning whether the pressure of a high-profile transfer and captaincy responsibilities might be weighing on him.

Liverpool manager Arne Slot, meanwhile, will be watching closely. The Dutch coach has been known for his man-management skills, often helping players rediscover form and confidence through tactical clarity and communication. But with Liverpool’s frontline already competitive — featuring Darwin Núñez, Cody Gakpo, Diogo Jota, and Luis Díaz — Isak cannot afford a prolonged slump. Slot will expect his new signing to quickly adapt to the intensity of English football’s most demanding club environment.

Interestingly, Isak was not the only Swedish forward to face criticism after the match. Arsenal’s Viktor Gyökeres also received a 1/5 rating from the same outlet. The report on Gyökeres read: “His form has been inconsistent lately. I don’t know what’s happened, but he doesn’t seem to believe in himself right now. He looks resigned and uneasy.” Both strikers were expected to form a dangerous partnership for Sweden, but their lack of chemistry and confidence was glaringly obvious against Switzerland’s organized defence.

Sweden’s defeat leaves their World Cup qualification hopes hanging by a thread. The team lacked creativity in midfield, and their front line looked devoid of inspiration. For Isak, the criticism has come at a particularly delicate moment in his career. Moving to Liverpool was meant to elevate him to the next level — playing under a new system, alongside elite players, and competing for trophies. Instead, the early struggles have placed him under immediate scrutiny.

Despite the harsh assessment, Isak still has time to turn things around. His talent is unquestionable — tall, skillful, and composed, he has the tools to become one of the Premier League’s most complete strikers. What he needs now is rhythm, confidence, and understanding with his new teammates. Slot’s track record of getting the best out of attacking players at Feyenoord offers hope that the Swede will eventually find his footing.

Back home in Liverpool, the coaching staff will likely provide him with individual training plans to improve his sharpness and finishing. His ability to respond to this setback will determine how quickly he can regain form. Every striker goes through dry spells, but at a club like Liverpool — where expectations are sky-high — patience is often in short supply.

For Sweden, however, this result and the ensuing criticism may serve as a wake-up call. Both Isak and Gyökeres have the potential to lead the nation’s next generation, but they will need to rediscover their confidence quickly if they are to guide their country to the World Cup. With crucial qualifiers ahead, the pressure is on both forwards to deliver.

Isak’s story at Liverpool is just beginning, and while his start has been shaky, the coming weeks could define his future at the club. Fans will be hoping that this brutal rating serves as motivation — a reminder that expectations for him are immense. Because when Alexander Isak is at his best, few defenders in the world can stop him.