Alexander Isak Booed During First Sweden Appearance Since Liverpool Transfer

Alexander Isak made his first appearance of the season for Sweden following his high-profile £125m transfer from Newcastle United to Liverpool, coming on as a substitute in a 2-0 World Cup qualifying defeat to Kosovo. Despite his return to play after over 100 days out, Isak was booed by the Kosovan supporters amid a hostile atmosphere, although the boos were reportedly unrelated to the ongoing transfer saga and more connected to the match tensions. Sweden's manager Jon Dahl Tomasson had initially left Isak on the bench due to concerns over his lack of match fitness after missing pre-season and competitive matches, highlighting a cautious approach to the striker's long-term fitness and readiness. Isak expressed relief that his transfer was settled, emphasizing his eagerness to focus on football again despite the challenging summer marked by limited training and no game time. The striker had previously been Newcastle's top scorer and a key figure in their Carabao Cup win but chose to force his move to Liverpool, resulting in a period of separation from Newcastle's activities. Sweden's coaching staff and Isak himself are mindful of the need for a gradual return to full fitness to maximize his impact for both club and country.