Isak named in Liverpool squad for Atletico tie but Slot says he will not play 90 minutes

Arne Slot confirmed on Tuesday that Alexander Isak will be included in Liverpool's squad for Wednesday's Champions League opener against Atletico Madrid, but said the £125 million summer signing is not yet fit to play a full 90 minutes.

Isak, who moved from Newcastle United on deadline day after a high-profile transfer saga, was left out of Liverpool's match-day selection for the 1-0 victory over Burnley on Sunday. The Sweden international has logged just 18 minutes of competitive football in the past four months as he builds his fitness following the move.

Speaking at a pre-match press conference, Slot said there was "definitely a chance" Isak could play against Atletico but reiterated that the striker would not be ready to complete the match. "I would usually say 99.9 per cent sure but I can say 100 per cent sure he will not play 90 minutes but he's part of the squad," Slot said.

Isak missed Liverpool's trip to Burnley as the coaching staff managed his return to full fitness. He made a substitute appearance for Sweden during the last international break, but that cameo was the only meaningful competitive action for the forward ahead of his transfer. The move from Newcastle followed a period during which Isak reportedly refused to play in order to force the transfer through.

Slot was asked whether Isak could start the Champions League match and replied: "The only thing we're sure of is he will not play 90." He also suggested that supporters who are eager to see Isak play should not rule out him getting minutes in the match against the Spanish side. "It's already a Champions League game to look forward to but if people look forward to his playing time that could mean that could happen tomorrow as well," Slot added.

Liverpool begin their group-stage campaign in Europe against Atletico as Slot balances the need to integrate a major summer signing with the club's competitive schedule. The manager's remarks signalled cautious optimism over Isak's readiness to contribute while setting clear limits on his immediate involvement as the club manages his workload.

Further selection decisions and Isak's exact role are expected to be confirmed in the match-day squad announcement ahead of kick-off.