‘Failed Galactico’ Isak earns Iraola a winning return to Bournemouth

Jamie Carragher described Alexander Isak, Florian Wirtz and Bradley Barcola as ‘failed Galacticos‘ ahead of Liverpool’s game at Bournemouth.

Isak scored the winning goal in the 57th minute, helping Liverpool record their second league win of the season and giving manager Andoni Iraola a happy return to the south coast.

The Sweden international has been under scrutiny since his move from Newcastle United last summer, but he is beginning to silence his critics.

He has scored four league goals, the same number he registered throughout last season. Only Manchester City’s Erling Braut Haaland has scored more than him in the entire division.

Isak’s all-round play is questionable, but his start to the campaign will be encouraging for Liverpool.

Wirtz disappointed again, although Iraola said he was ‘much happier with his performance in the second half’.

The German international offered little with the ball, registering just three key passes. Trey Nyoni replaced him in the 71st minute.

Barcola also failed to make an impression despite getting into good positions with his close control.

He was arguably one of Liverpool’s poorest players, having failed to register any key passes or crosses, although he registered one shot on target.

In his defence, Barcola did not have a proper pre-season due to his prolonged transfer saga, which has contributed to his slow start.

Iraola will be expecting more from Liverpool’s record signings after the international break.

Liverpool are unbeaten in the Premier League, but they trail leaders Manchester City by six points.

They will have the chance to reduce that gap when they host City at Anfield on October 11.