Liverpool shattered British transfer records by securing Newcastle striker Alexander Isak in a £125 million deal. This move caps off an active window for reigning Premier League champions. Former defender Jamie Carragher expressed thrill over Reds’ bold spending.
Carragher noted fans’ past frustrations as rivals splashed cash. Now, Liverpool twice broke records this summer, buying ready-made world-class talent like Isak instead of developing them. “Exciting times for supporters,” he said. Challenge lies in manager Arne Slot integrating everyone.
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On Isak’s injury history, Carragher acknowledged concerns from his early Newcastle days. Yet, last season saw him play extensively. “When paying that much, you want him on pitch most games,” Carragher added. He hopes Slot’s training methods, which improved squad fitness last year, help Isak stay durable—unlike unbreakable front three of Salah, Firmino, Mane era.
Fitting attackers poses “good dilemma” for Slot. Carragher suggested Salah on right, Isak central, Florian Wirtz as number 10. Left wing remains open, with options like Gakpo, Diaz, or Jota. Rotation likely there, possibly even front two at times. Bench strength grows too, aiding title defense after substitutes won early matches.
With nine points from three games despite not peaking, Liverpool emerge clear favorites. “Champions spending £400 million hard not to back,” Carragher stated. Bedding in new players and system while winning worries rivals.
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Carragher criticized player power tactics. Isak refused play to force move, unlike Marc Guehi who trained diligently but stayed at Crystal Palace. “Sad if this becomes norm,” he said. Players deserve big moves for career growth, but must honor contracts by training and playing.
In dressing rooms, such situations arise, like with Luis Suarez at Liverpool. Teammates forgive quickly if talent wins games. Fans too—goals erase grudges.
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Liverpool missed signing Guehi, disappointing but not critical. Keeping Joe Gomez ensures defensive cover. “Needed striker more than center-back,” Carragher emphasized. Numbers exist at back with Van Dijk, Konate, Gomez, Quansah. Guehi would add competition, possibly revisited January. No way lone forward like Darwin Nunez suffices till then.
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Outgoing Harvey Elliott heads to Aston Villa on loan, option to buy for £35 million. Good step for his development after starring in England’s U21 triumph. Tough breaking into Liverpool’s star-studded midfield against Salah, Wirtz. “Loyal squad player, but needs regular starts,” Carragher said. Fair fee rewards his service.
Liverpool’s revamped squad positions them strongly for another title.