Wayne Rooney Raises Concerns Over Isak’s Liverpool Future as Ekitike and Wirtz Partnership Flourishes

Wayne Rooney has voiced growing concern over Alexander Isak’s position at Liverpool as the partnership between Hugo Ekitike and Florian Wirtz continues to develop under Arne Slot.

Speaking on his podcast, the former Manchester United and England striker highlighted how Liverpool’s recent attacking improvement could complicate Isak’s return from injury, particularly with Ekitike and Wirtz establishing themselves as a dangerous combination.

The comments follow reporting from Rousing The Kop, where Eoin Morris detailed Rooney’s assessment of Liverpool’s evolving frontline and the potential implications for Isak’s role.

With the Reds entering a decisive phase of the season, the balance between form, fitness, and selection has become one of Slot’s most pressing challenges.

Rooney Highlights Growing Attacking Chemistry

Liverpool’s attacking play has gathered momentum in recent weeks, with Wirtz and Ekitike emerging as central figures in Slot’s system. Their movement, pressing, and technical understanding have helped unlock defences and restore fluency in the final third.

Rooney admitted he has been impressed by their growing connection.

“Yeah, they look good [Wirtz and Ekitike], don’t they?” he said. “These two seem to be having a real good understanding of each other’s game and they look like a real threat.”

The pair’s chemistry has been particularly evident in transition, where Wirtz’s vision complements Ekitike’s intelligent runs behind defensive lines. Their ability to combine quickly has added a new dimension to Liverpool’s attacking structure.

From a tactical standpoint, Slot’s preference for fluid forward movement has suited both players. Wirtz operates between the lines, while Ekitike provides depth and pressing intensity, creating balance within the front unit.

This evolution has strengthened Liverpool’s attacking platform but has also raised questions about squad hierarchy.

Isak’s Injury Absence and Uncertain Role

Alexander Isak arrived at Anfield amid significant expectations, with Liverpool investing heavily in the Sweden international. However, a serious injury has limited his involvement during his debut campaign.

Rooney acknowledged that Isak’s absence has coincided with Liverpool’s upturn in attacking form.

“And I’d be more worried if I was Isak sat there watching,” Rooney said, “because obviously they paid a lot of money for him.”

With Ekitike and Wirtz flourishing, Isak now faces the challenge of reintegrating into a side that has found rhythm without him. While his quality remains unquestioned, timing has not been in his favour.

The forward’s recovery is progressing, and club staff remain optimistic about his return before the season’s conclusion. However, the competitive landscape has shifted.

Liverpool’s recent success has reduced the margin for experimentation. Any returning player must immediately demonstrate sharpness and tactical discipline to reclaim a starting role.

For Isak, this means not only regaining fitness but also adapting to Slot’s evolving attacking framework.

Competition Driving Liverpool’s Forward Evolution

Rooney’s analysis reflects a broader reality at elite clubs: sustained competition is essential for performance levels.

“These two seem to be having a real good understanding of each other’s game,” he reiterated, underlining how form can quickly reshape selection dynamics.

Slot has prioritised intensity and positional flexibility across his frontline. Ekitike’s work rate complements Wirtz’s creativity, allowing Liverpool to press aggressively while maintaining technical control.

This structure has also improved defensive transitions, an area that had previously caused problems. By winning possession higher up the pitch, Liverpool have reduced pressure on their back line and increased attacking efficiency.

Internally, the coaching staff view competition as a positive force. Isak’s return is expected to raise standards further, rather than disrupt momentum.

However, integrating multiple high-profile forwards requires careful management. Balancing minutes, roles, and expectations will be central to maintaining squad harmony.

Strategic Implications for Slot’s Selection Plans

Looking ahead, Slot faces a complex strategic puzzle. With Ekitike, Wirtz, and Isak all capable of leading Liverpool’s attack, tactical adaptability will be crucial.

Rooney believes Isak must respond decisively.

“It’s not Isak’s fault,” he acknowledged, “it’s simply the way football goes sometimes.”

The manager may explore hybrid systems that accommodate multiple forwards, particularly in high-profile fixtures or congested schedules. Rotational policies are likely to increase as Liverpool navigate domestic and European commitments.

From a recruitment perspective, Liverpool’s long-term planning remains intact. Isak’s signing was made with future seasons in mind, not solely immediate impact.

Nevertheless, performance remains the ultimate currency. If Ekitike and Wirtz continue to deliver consistently, Slot will find it difficult to alter a functioning system.

The coming months will therefore be pivotal. Isak’s ability to return at full intensity, coupled with Liverpool’s tactical evolution, will shape the club’s attacking identity moving forward.