When Newcastle United signed Alexander Isak from Real Sociedad during the summer transfer window of 2022, they were taking a significant risk. While the Swedish striker had shown promise in Spain, scoring 44 goals in 132 matches, he was still considered a project rather than a finished product. His earlier stint at Borussia Dortmund had not gone as planned, where he managed just one goal before moving on from the Bundesliga club.
Upon his transfer to Dortmund, Isak was hailed as one of Europe’s brightest young talents, having made a mark in Sweden with 13 goals in 29 appearances for AIK in 2016. However, his time in Germany was frustrating, as he struggled for game time and failed to meet expectations.
Newcastle recognized the challenge ahead when they secured Isak’s services, but they also saw the immense potential he possessed. Since making the move to Tyneside, the 25-year-old has demonstrated impressive growth. In his debut season, he scored 10 goals, followed by 25 in his second season, and an impressive 27 goals last term, with 23 of those coming in the Premier League—only Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah outperformed him in that statistic.
Fast forward to now, and Isak is at the center of a major transfer saga, with rumors swirling about his desire to join Liverpool. Despite his expressed interest, Newcastle is reluctant to part ways with their star striker. It’s clear that replacing Isak would be no easy feat; he has been one of the club’s most impactful forwards since Alan Shearer, playing a pivotal role in their Carabao Cup victory and helping secure a spot in the Champions League for the second time in three years.
However, Newcastle must consider the bigger picture. Isak’s recent behavior, including skipping training to train with Real Sociedad, has raised concerns about his commitment to the team. After a positive draw against Aston Villa to kick off the Premier League season, manager Eddie Howe emphasized the need for a resolution regarding Isak’s situation.
Following his inclusion in the PFA Team of the Season, Isak made headlines with a bold statement, expressing his frustration over broken promises and a lack of communication from the club. He stated, “When promises are broken and trust is lost, the relationship can’t continue. That’s where things are for me right now.”
In response, Newcastle reiterated their stance, insisting that Isak would not be sold and that they would welcome him back when he is ready. However, allowing him to return might do more harm than good. Under Eddie Howe’s leadership, the club has built a strong, united front, and any disruption could jeopardize that harmony.
Newcastle has only won one trophy in recent history, and to increase that number, they need a cohesive team effort both on and off the pitch. If Isak were to return, it could merely delay the inevitable—a repeat of the current drama down the line.
The club has faced challenges in identifying potential replacements for Isak, with targets like Benjamin Sesko, Liam Delap, Joao Pedro, and Hugo Ekitike opting for other clubs. However, if Newcastle can secure one or two new strikers, it may be time to let Isak go.
With potential new signings like Yoane Wissa and Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson on the horizon, the club should prioritize team cohesion over individual egos. Football is fundamentally a team sport, and this is a lesson that Isak must come to terms with.
