MU legend calls for Liverpool to bench 'star signing' Isak

Legend Wayne Rooney believes Alexander Isak should be relegated to the bench following a lackluster performance in Liverpool’s 1-2 home defeat to Manchester United last weekend.

In this major English clash, coach Arne Slot once again trusted Isak as the striker instead of Hugo Ekitike. However, the Swedish forward disappointed again by missing a great chance in the first half, failing to score in a one-on-one with goalkeeper Senne Lammens.

Since his record-breaking £125 million transfer to Liverpool, Isak has yet to score in the Premier League after four appearances. His only goal for “The Reds” came in a 2-1 Carabao Cup win over Southampton, a figure far below expectations for such a high-profile signing.

Speaking on the podcast The Wayne Rooney Show, the former Man Utd captain did not hesitate to criticize Isak’s form, stating he lacks both fitness and performance to start matches.

“I wouldn’t play Isak. He hasn’t been ready since leaving Newcastle. He missed the pre-season period, which is crucial,” Rooney said. “While Newcastle were training, Isak was probably sitting at home for hours negotiating transfers. No matter how much he trained on his own, he’s paying the price now. Based on his current form, he doesn’t deserve a starting spot; Ekitike is the better choice.”

Rooney believes Arne Slot must make a decisive move as Liverpool is currently experiencing a slump in form.

Harry Maguire’s late goal led to Liverpool’s fourth consecutive defeat across all competitions, dropping them to third place in the Premier League and four points behind leaders Arsenal. This is also the first time in Arne Slot’s career as a manager to lose four matches in a row, highlighting the mounting pressure on the Dutch coach.

Rooney commented: “Liverpool seems a bit complacent. Slot is a Premier League champion, but he’s still young and facing this losing streak for the first time. I’ve noticed him arguing with referees on the sidelines, which shows the pressure is clearly affecting him.”

As expectations on Isak grow heavier, Rooney’s message serves as a warning that Liverpool needs players ready to fight, not expensive signings who have yet to settle in.