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Alexander Isak was reportedly met with jeers from Kosovo fans as he entered the pitch during Sweden's FIFA World Cup qualifying loss on Monday evening.
The 25-year-old was featuring for the first time in over 100 days, also marking his debut outing since completing his move to Liverpool. Isak sealed a British-record transfer from Newcastle United to the Reds on deadline day.
Given that he had been training separately and hadn't featured for Eddie Howe's side in the months leading up to his high-profile departure, there was considerable speculation about whether the forward would represent his nation during the September international window.
That uncertainty has now been resolved, as Liverpool's latest acquisition enjoyed an 18-minute cameo from the bench in the closing stages of Sweden's 2-0 defeat in Kosovo.
Reports from the encounter suggest it proved a forgettable evening for the Scandinavians. Fotbollskanalen provides additional insight regarding Isak specifically, as he stepped into a hostile environment in Pristina.
The publication noted: "After around 72 minutes, Alexander Isak was substituted in, while Anthony Elanga left the field. The forward played his first match since May and was met with boos."
No particular explanation is offered for why Isak faced hostility when taking to the field for the first time following a transfer saga that has sparked debate regarding his behaviour.
The fervent Kosovan supporters were hoping their team would maintain their lead, despite the unfolding World Cup qualifying scenario having no direct impact on this.
The report went on to detail why Isak received a yellow card less than 10 minutes after stepping onto the pitch.
Muharrem Jashari was injured in a clash with Anton Saletros, which incensed the Kosovo camp. A scuffle ensued between both teams, and Isak, along with Fidan Aliti and Arijanet Muric from the opposing side, were cautioned.
Towards the end, Liverpool's new No. 9 had a promising opportunity after being set up for a shot on goal, but his attempt was directly at Muric.
Isak managed to steer clear of any further disciplinary issues as Lindon Emerllahu of Kosovo was shown a second yellow card and sent off during added time.
Isak also managed to avoid any injuries, a fact that Arne Slot will be pleased with ahead of meeting his new player when Liverpool resume training later this week.
Upon their return from the international break, Liverpool face a packed schedule starting with an away match against Burnley at Turf Moor on 14 September.
This is followed by three home games: against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League on 17 September, a Merseyside derby against Everton on 20 September, and a third-round Carabao Cup tie against Southampton on 23 September.
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