Ex-Liverpool forward Michael Owen believes the addition of Alexander Isak means that the Reds have the best players in the world for 4 different positions.

The Merseysiders secured the signing of Isak from Newcastle on Deadline Day for £125m, and speaking about the Swedish international and the rest of the first-team squad, Owen said:

“Who else is out there that’s better in that position? Liverpool has probably got the best goalkeeper in the world. It has probably got the best centre-half in the world.”

“Liverpool has probably got the best right-sided attacker in the world. And arguably, now got the best centre-forward in the world.”

“And to have the best you can get in four or five positions in a team, just makes you incredibly strong. And that’s what Liverpool have gone and done.”

Some rivals would dispute Owen’s claim

Man City manager Pep Guardiola made his feelings clear when he was asked about Isak in a press conference earlier this week. While he admitted that the 25-year-old is an “exceptional player”, he insisted that Erling Haaland is the “top” striker.

When it comes to the other three positions, not many will dispute the ability of van Dijk, but there will be more debate about Alisson and Salah, based on their current form and age.

In terms of goalkeepers, the likes of City’s Gianluigi Donnarumma and Aston Villa’s Emi Martinez have been favoured in terms of awards in recent years. When we look at right-wingers, many would cite Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal as the best.

Isak is backed to hit the ground running at Liverpool

Owen thinks the striker won’t need much time to adapt to his new surroundings, having played in the Premier League for three seasons already.

Of course, much has been made about Isak’s fitness after not really having a pre-season. He did start against Atletico Madrid midweek, but he may not be in the lineup for the Merseyside derby.

Read more about the Liverpool First Team Squad for 2025/26 here