Isak reveals Iraola’s high-press masterplan: defending as an ‘attacking weapon’ to fire Liverpool’s goals

Alexander Isak has revealed how Andoni Iraola wants his defensive work to be the trigger for more Liverpool goals.

Isak has started the new season in good form for Liverpool with three goals in fourPremier League appearances. The Swedish striker has matched his return from an injury-hit debut campaign, following his £125m record move from Newcastle United in 2025.

Liverpool are under new management this season, after Iraola replaced Arne Slot as head coach. The former Bournemouth boss has built a reputation for high-intensity pressing and Isak has opened up on his role to lead the press.

He said Iraola’s high press ‘is an attacking weapon’ that can lead to more Liverpool goals.

“He asks me to be a part of the defending, but to defend in positions where, when we win the ball, we can counter quickly and get the ball forward to the offensive line,” Isak said in an interview with theBBC.

“He wants me to defend. The way we defend, we defend to score goals. The defending, in the end, is an attacking weapon.

“I think that’s what the team needs, getting the ball to the offensive players quickly. If we can do that, we should score more goals.”

“It’s delivering”: Isak lauds Gakpo link as he insists Liverpool’s defending “is an attacking weapon” under Iraola

Isak has built an encouraging understanding with Liverpool teammate Cody Gakpo this season.

Gakpo has assisted all three of Isak’s league goals, the most productive combination in thePremier League so far this season. Isak praised the Dutchman and hopes their relationship can continue to develop.

“It’s definitely been successful so far. He’s very versatile. He can do most things on the pitch, he’s comfortable out wide or coming deep and receiving the ball. As we’ve seen, it’s delivering.”