The current Premier League season has seen a significant struggle for several high-profile strikers who were expected to shine. After a record-breaking summer transfer window where English clubs spent over **£3 billion**, notable forwards like Alexander Isak, Benjamin Sesko, and Viktor Gyökeres have yet to meet expectations, leaving fans and analysts questioning what went wrong.
In a bold move, Liverpool shattered the British transfer record by signing Isak from Newcastle United for **£125 million**. This acquisition was part of a broader trend, as Manchester United invested in Sesko, and Arsenal secured Gyökeres, both of whom were heavily linked with moves to the Premier League. Yet, as of the November international break, this trio has collectively managed only six league goals, drawing attention to their underwhelming performances.
Liverpool’s investment in Isak raised hopes for a repeat of their league title success. However, the team currently sits in eighth place, trailing leaders Arsenal by eight points. Last season, Isak was one of the top performers, contributing to **29 goals** and assists. The expectation was that his transition to Liverpool would be seamless, considering his prior success. Yet, his transfer was marred by complications, including a delayed move and a groin injury, which have limited his contributions on the pitch.
Isak has played only **253 minutes** in the league, with a mere single shot on target in four appearances. The club’s tactical integration of Isak has been less than ideal, complicating matters further as Liverpool’s new manager, Arne Slot, navigates his team’s dynamics.
Meanwhile, at Manchester United, the arrival of Sesko was met with some skepticism. Despite scoring twice early in the season, he has struggled to find his rhythm in a team undergoing significant changes. With **seven shots on target** from **618 minutes** across 11 appearances, Sesko’s performances have not yet translated into consistent goal-scoring. Sources indicate he is working diligently to adapt, but a recent knee complaint adds to the uncertainty surrounding his future.
In contrast, Gyökeres has shown flashes of potential at Arsenal, scoring **six goals** in **14 appearances**, including four in the league. However, questions linger about his ability to deliver in high-stakes matches. Arsenal currently leads the Premier League, but their success has been largely attributed to solid defensive play rather than the explosive scoring expected from Gyökeres.
Despite the struggles among these marquee signings, there are other forwards who have thrived. For instance, Liverpool’s Hugo Ekitike has stepped up with two goals in his first three games, while Chelsea’s João Pedro made an impact at the FIFA Club World Cup. Newcastle’s Nick Woltemade has also impressed, scoring six goals in **14 matches**, demonstrating the varying levels of success among new arrivals.
As the season progresses, pressure is mounting on these strikers to find their form. Historical comparisons reveal that even the greatest forwards, such as Alan Shearer and Wayne Rooney, had to navigate slow starts in their Premier League careers. In contrast, Erling Haaland has set a relentless benchmark, scoring **14 goals** in just **11 matches**.
The lingering question as the season unfolds is whether Isak, Sesko, and Gyökeres can rise to the occasion and deliver on the promise that accompanied their transfers. As the January transfer window approaches, clubs will be closely monitoring these players’ performances, assessing whether adjustments or additional reinforcements are necessary to achieve their ambitions.
