On the evening of 19/8, Isak was absent from the Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) awards ceremony. The Swedish striker later explained on social media that the current situation made him uncomfortable attending.
Isak also accused Newcastle of breaking promises regarding his departure. "I have remained silent for too long while others have spoken," Isak wrote. "That silence has allowed some to express their own views on the matter, knowing they don't reflect what was discussed and agreed upon. The fact is, promises were made, and the club is aware of my stance. It's deceptive to act as if these matters are new."
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Striker Alexander Isak shields the ball from Virgil van Dijk during the Newcastle-Liverpool Premier League match at St James Park on 4/12/2024. Photo: AFP |
Striker Alexander Isak shields the ball from Virgil van Dijk during the Newcastle-Liverpool Premier League match at St James Park on 4/12/2024. Photo: AFP
Isak wants to move to Liverpool, the reigning champions and one of Newcastle's Premier League rivals. However, the deal is stalled because Newcastle lacks a replacement and Liverpool hasn't met the USD 200 million asking price. To pressure the club, Isak has isolated himself from his teammates. He also skipped the summer tour and Newcastle's opening Premier League match (a 0-0 draw against Aston Villa on 16/8).
"When promises aren't kept and trust is lost, the relationship cannot continue. That's why a move is the best solution for everyone, not just me," Isak added.
Newcastle quickly responded to their key striker's message, expressing disappointment and denying any promises of a departure. However, the fifth-place Premier League finishers from last season also emphasized their understanding of and willingness to listen to the player.
"As explained to Isak and his agent, we must consider the interests of the club and fans in every decision. We've made it clear that the conditions for selling the player haven't been met. And we don't expect them to be met," the statement read.
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Coach Eddie Howe speaks with Isak during the Newcastle-Man City Premier League match at St James' Park on 13/1/2024. Photo: Reuters |
Coach Eddie Howe speaks with Isak during the Newcastle-Man City Premier League match at St James' Park on 13/1/2024. Photo: Reuters
Newcastle affirmed that Isak remains part of the team despite his rebellious statements. The club's management and coaching staff are ready to welcome him back if he reconsiders.
In 2022, Newcastle signed Isak from Sociedad for a club-record USD 85 million. Over three years, the Swedish striker scored 62 goals in 109 matches. He also helped Newcastle end their 70-year trophy drought by winning the 2024-2025 League Cup.
This summer, Newcastle has only signed winger Anthony Elanga, center-back Malick Thiaw, and midfielder Jacob Ramsey. If they acquire Yoane Wissa, the striker who scored 20 goals in 39 games for Brentford last season, they might allow Isak to join Liverpool.
Thanh Quy (according to Instagram, Daily Mail)
