Swedish international Alexander Isak has written his name into Liverpool's history books for all the wrong reasons, becoming the first Reds player in 119 years to set an unwanted record during their humiliating 3-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest.
Historic Defeat at Anfield
The reigning Premier League champions suffered another devastating blow on Saturday, November 22, as Nottingham Forest secured their second consecutive victory at Anfield with a comprehensive 3-0 win. Brazilian defender Murillo, Nicolo Savona, and Morgan Gibbs-White found the net for the visitors, compounding Liverpool's misery in what has become a disastrous title defense.
Despite dominating possession with 75% of the ball and registering 20 shots throughout the match, Liverpool failed to convert their opportunities while Forest proved clinical in front of goal. The defeat marks Liverpool's sixth loss in their last seven matches, leaving the former champions languishing in 11th position after 12 Premier League games.
Isak's Unwanted Milestone
The £125 million British record signing from Newcastle United endured a particularly difficult afternoon, managing only 14 touches throughout his 67-minute appearance - the fewest of any Liverpool starter. According to Opta statistics, no other outfield player recorded fewer than 40 touches during the match.
Isak's struggles were further highlighted by his failure to attempt a shot until the 64th minute, which ultimately resulted in a mishit effort. His premature substitution with over 20 minutes remaining capped off a forgettable performance that saw him equal a record last set by Percy Saul in 1906.
Alexander Isak has now become the first Liverpool player since 1906 to lose each of his first four Premier League starts for the club, marking one of the most difficult beginnings to a Liverpool career in modern history.
Broader Concerns for Liverpool
The statistics paint a grim picture for Liverpool's title defense, with the team having lost eight of their last eleven matches across all competitions. In the Premier League specifically, they've suffered five defeats in their last six outings, breaking a 60-year record for the worst performance by defending champions.
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk didn't mince words following the match, openly criticizing his teammates' performance and attitude. Manager Arne Slot also faced scrutiny, though he defended his approach by insisting that his players failed to create meaningful chances despite their statistical dominance.
Since his high-profile summer transfer from Newcastle United, Isak has managed just one goal and one assist in nine appearances across all competitions. His solitary strike came in the Carabao Cup third round against Southampton last September.
Fan Reactions and Future Prospects
Social media erupted with mixed reactions to Isak's struggles and Liverpool's ongoing crisis. One fan @TWEETORACLE commented: "That's what happens when you force a move like an egomaniac. Recall the high profile case of Coutinho. It never ends well."
Others pointed to tactical issues, with @GaryH23163 noting: "At Newcastle he had freedom to move all over the top of pitch. With Liverpool's system he's too static stuck in the middle waiting for crosses that don't come."
Despite the current crisis, some supporters urged patience, with @jacobevansj stating: "Rome wasn't built in a day. Trust the process and be patient. Arne Slot IN."
As Liverpool prepares for their next fixtures, all eyes will be on whether Isak can break his unfortunate streak and begin justifying his record-breaking transfer fee, while manager Arne Slot faces increasing pressure to reverse the team's alarming decline.
