Why Alexander Isak did not feature for Sweden against Slovenia in World Cup qualifying following blockbuster move to Liverpool

Isak’s switch to Anfield was one of the shocks of the transfer window, completed after weeks of speculation and growing tension in the North East. The 24-year-old effectively sat out Newcastle’s summer fixtures and their opening Premier League games to push the move through, a decision that left a sour taste in the mouths of many Magpies supporters.

Isak's absence from pre-season has raised concerns about his sharpness. While Liverpool fans are eager to see their blockbuster signing unleashed, Tomasson insisted that Isak is nowhere near peak condition.

Speaking to ViaPlay, Tomasson said, "He had only done three training sessions with the team. He had no preseason with the team and of course, no playing time. The risk was probably a bit too great to use him today."

Asked whether the striker could feature in Sweden’s next qualifier against Kosovo on Monday, Tomasson offered a glimmer of hope: “Hopefully, hopefully. He could come in as a game-changer.”

In the midst of the noise, Isak has gone quiet. The striker has reportedly chosen to snub all media duties during the international break, refusing interviews and public appearances. Instead, he wants to focus solely on rebuilding fitness and letting his football do the talking when the time comes. The international break may serve as a reset for Isak, giving him precious time to gain minutes with Sweden before returning to Merseyside. If his body responds, Liverpool boss Arne Slot could hand him his debut against Burnley on September 14.