Fears of an ACL injury for Liverpool’s record signing Alexander Isak have been played down by journalist James Pearce, but there is still concern over a lengthy absence.
Arne Slot‘s Reds side may have won 2-1 away to Tottenham in the Premier League on Saturday, but Isak’s injury marred the celebrations.
The Swede was hurt as he scored the opening goal, being on the receiving end of a strong tackle from Micky van de Ven and limping off after treatment.
The Alexander Isak injury: A quick look
• Conflicting reports: The Athletic’s James Pearce suggests a lower leg issue, but medical experts fear a valgus knee injury that could potentially involve the ACL.
• Alisson‘s update: The goalkeeper offered a glimmer of hope post-match, suggesting the striker “will be OK” and that the squad is praying it is just a heavy knock.
• Scans pending: Liverpool face an anxious wait for official results following the Swede’s collision with Micky van de Ven while scoring the opener at Spurs.
• Frustrating start: The injury marks another setback for the £125m record signing, who has struggled for consistency with just three goals in 16 Reds appearances.
Despite fears over potential ACL damage to his knee, The Athletic‘s Pearce has taken to X to report that a “suspected lower leg problem” appears to be the issue.
Liverpool are facing an “anxious wait” to learn the severity of the injury, following a scan.
Expert’s early verdict on Alexander Isak injury
That’s not to say that ACL damage has definitely been avoided, however, with Physio Scout leaning towards that being the diagnosis:
“Alexander Isak had to be subbed off with a leg injury in Liverpool’s clash vs. Spurs. Off initial look, it seems to be an ACL injury (+/- meniscus). Initial contact was made with the ankle, but the knee was forced into a valgus position which brings ACL/MCL into question.
“He was able to walk off which likely rules out any lower leg fracture. Was clutching at the knee. If ACL: 9+ months.”
On a positive front, Alisson was interviewed after the Spurs win, saying “I think he will be OK” when asked about Isak, adding that “hopefully, it’s just a knock and nothing too serious.”
“I’m happy for him for scoring the goal, but of course we don’t want him to be injured,” the goalkeeper told Stadium Astro.
“Hopefully it’s just a knock, nothing too serious, because he can help our team so much with his quality.”
Another cruel blow in Isak’s stuttering Liverpool career
This sums up Isak’s Liverpool career to date, with the 26-year-old even suffering a setback when he scores an important goal – his third in 16 Reds appearances.
He hasn’t been able to gain any momentum, arriving as an undercooked player without a proper pre-season behind him, and not looking fully fit since.
Isak’s goal at Spurs summed up his ruthless nature, however, and it felt like an ideal moment to kick on, only to be struck down by injury.
ACL damage would be a heartbreaking outcome, and could even see Liverpool’s record signing miss next summer’s World Cup with Sweden if they qualify, but it is hopefully not that serious.
It would arguably be a surprise if Isak was only ruled out for a short period, though, with a lengthy spell on the sidelines feeling likely.
Alisson‘s comments do provide some hope, but it may have been a case of wishful thinking more than anything from Liverpool’s No. 1.
Alexander Isak: Frequently Asked Questions
How many goals has Isak scored for Liverpool this season?
As of late December 2025, Isak has scored three goals in 16 appearances for the Reds, including his most recent strike against Tottenham.
Why has Alexander Isak struggled for fitness?
Since his record move, the Swede has suffered from a lack of a full pre-season and various niggling setbacks, including groin and adductor issues earlier in the campaign.
Is Alexander Isak‘s injury history a concern?
Whilst a prolific scorer at Newcastle, Isak missed 39 matches through injury during his time at St James’ Park, leading to questions over his long-term availability at Anfield.