Wayne Rooney Slams Isak For Starting Ahead Of Ekitike
Sports Updated: 20 October 2025 16:03 EAT
Liverpool strikers Hugo Ekitike and Alexander Isak
Liverpool legend Wayne Rooney has criticized the decision to start Alexander Isak ahead of Hugo Ekitike following the club’s 2–1 defeat to Manchester United. Rooney argued that Isak’s lack of pre-season preparation has left him unready for Premier League action.
“He doesn't deserve to be playing ahead of Ekitike. While Newcastle were training he was probably sat at home on the phone to his agent for six hours a day trying to get a move. It's so difficult when you don't have a pre-season,” Rooney said.
Isak joined Liverpool in September for a British-record £125 million, missing most of Newcastle’s pre-season. Rooney added, “I wouldn't play Isak, he hasn't looked ready since coming from Newcastle. He hasn't trained, hasn't had a pre-season. It's so important. It's so difficult when you don't have a pre-season. He might've done stuff by himself, but he's paying the price for it.”
Rooney concluded that, based on current form, Ekitike deserves the starting spot over Isak.
Ekitike, meanwhile, has taken a positive view of the competition, saying he is learning from Isak and sees their rivalry as beneficial for the team’s depth and flexibility.
Tags: Champions League English Premier League Liverpool Fc Signstvkenya Editor's Pick Uefa Uefa Champions League
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FELIX MAKONA
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