Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney has faulted Liverpool manager Arne Slot for handing record signing Alexander Isak the starting role ahead of Hugo Ekitike.
Isak’s start to life at Liverpool has been far from the explosive arrival many fans anticipated. Since his summer switch to Anfield, the Swedish striker has struggled to find rhythm or consistency in a red shirt, enduring a frustrating opening spell at Merseyside.
In seven appearances across all competitions, Isak has managed just one goal, which came in the Carabao Cup against Southampton, and a single assist in the defeat to Chelsea just before the October international break. Beyond those brief flashes, his overall impact has been underwhelming.
On the other hand, Ekitike has enjoyed a better start to life at Liverpool since arriving for Eintracht Frankfurt, also in the summer, but the lanky Frenchman now finds himself playing second fiddle to Isak.
After witnessing their various starts, Rooney, who announced himself to English football on the books of Liverpool’s local rivals Everton, insists Isak hasn’t justified his starting role so far.
“I wouldn’t play Isak, he hasn’t looked ready since coming from Newcastle,” Rooney said on The Wayne Rooney Show.
“He hasn’t trained, hasn’t had a pre-season. It’s so important. While Newcastle were training, he was probably at home on the phone to his agent for six hours a day, trying to get a move.
“It’s so difficult when you don’t have a pre-season. He might’ve done stuff by himself, but he’s paying the price for it.
“On performances, he doesn’t deserve to be playing ahead of Ekitike.”
Liverpool are currently reeling from a painful home defeat to arch rivals Manchester United which extended their losing streak to four games across all competitions. The Reds will need their big money striker to start stepping up sooner rather than later as they look to find their feet again.
Olaoluwa is a dedicated sports writer and passionate football enthusiast with two years of experience. Known for his keen analysis and commitment to the game, his work reflects a deep love for football, blending strategic insight with the emotional moments that make it a global passion. He is focused on honing his skills and consistently aims to inspire and engage readers through every article he writes.
