Alexander Isak scored twice inside nine minutes to give Liverpool F.C. Their first Premier League win of the season, a 2-0 result at Ipswich Town that also marked Andoni Iraola's maiden victory as manager. Isak's performance was highlighted as a long-awaited arrival, while Cody Gakpo provided both assists in a display that underlined his value to the squad.
Alexander Isak netted in the 2nd and 9th minutes at Portman Road, equalling his entire Premier League goal tally from last season in a single match. The striker finally looked like the record signing Liverpool hoped for, pressing with pace and running behind defenders effectively. His early brace set the tone for a comfortable night.
Iraola said he had no doubts about Isak's quality. "With Alex, if he's fit, if he's available, if he's in good shape, I think he will produce the numbers," the manager said.
Cody Gakpo was instrumental, creating both of Isak's goals in a performance that came after a summer where his future was uncertain. Manchester City had launched a bid for the Dutch forward late in the transfer window, but Liverpool blocked the move. Iraola insisted he "never doubted" Gakpo and values him highly within the squad's attacking options.
Gakpo's versatility was noted, with the manager praising his ability to play across the front three and his contribution in helping close out the game. This performance solidifies his place in a competitive attacking unit that also includes new signings Bradley Barcola and Victor Munoz.
Despite the win, some fan criticism was directed at Florian Wirtz following an unimpressive display against Ipswich. Fans were noted as "slamming" the German midfielder online after he managed just two shots and an 81% pass completion rate in 89 minutes. This comes after pundit Jamie Carragher warned last month that Wirtz, a signing, needed to step up this season after resembling "a useful squad addition for about £40m".
Iraola has publicly backed Wirtz to succeed at Anfield, claiming earlier this season there was no doubt about his qualities. The player has one assist from three matches this campaign, having contributed five goals and three assists in 33 league appearances last term. His adaptation to the physical demands of the Premier League remains a point of observation.
The Liverpool boss expressed relief at securing his first win, telling reporters it "feels good" after two opening draws. He praised his team's intensity and the collective effort, particularly from his forward players. The manner of the victory, with a high-pressing style that strangled Ipswich, pleased a manager who prides himself on energy and relentless pressure.
Iraola also discussed the competition for places in his squad, noting it was a "matter of pushing each other" among his talented attackers. The result provides a platform ahead of a home match against Fulham on September 12th.
