Less than one week to the new season of the premier league, Eddie Howe is reported as telling the media that Alexander Isak is not likely to play in the opening game against Aston Villa. Isak is still training separately with the first team having failed to feature in the recent friendly with Espanyol. Nonetheless, Howe said he hoped the striker stays at the club.
Key Takeaways
-
Isak is not training with the team and won’t play in the first game against Aston Villa.
-
; he wants to explore a move.
-
Eddie Howe wants to keep Isak, but the situation needs to be resolved first.
-
The team has been unsettled by the Isak situation.
-
Isak hasn’t been disciplined, but he returned late from the preseason tour.
-
Newcastle lacks strikers, and Isak’s absence is noticeable.
-
William Sula started up front, and Ramsdale saved a penalty in the latest match.
-
Newcastle is looking to sign more attackers.
-
Elanga and Park have joined Newcastle as new signings.
-
Liverpool’s manager didn’t comment on Isak
Eddie Howe Explains Alexander Isak’s Absence From Newcastle Squad
Less than one week to the new season of the premier league, Eddie Howe is reported as telling the media that Alexander Isak is not likely to play in the opening game against Aston Villa. Isak is still training separately with the first team having failed to feature in the recent friendly with Espanyol. Nonetheless, Howe said he hoped the striker stays at the club.
Does Alexander Isak Still Have a Future at Newcastle?
“He’s here. Naturally there is a future here at Newcastle. All people, associated with the club, would wish to have him back in the team. But it must be correct situation.”
On possible punishment:
None has been. He trains later than all the other squad, but that is all. He is technically a contract player and there is always a possibility of him playing again but I do not know the future.”
Liverpool Transfer Bid for Isak Rejected by Newcastle United
Liverpool have had a £60 million offer to sign Isak rejected earlier this month by the Newcastle club after the player made known his desire to explore his options over the transfer window. He is off training on his own.
Isak’s Transfer Request Causes Disruption Within the Squad
“It’s unsettling for the team. We’ve not been in this position since I arrived. The harmony has been our strength, and this has been a distraction.”
“We’re thin in his position. There’s a gap. But I give full credit to the players their training has stayed at a high level.”
Squad Morale and Team Unity Remain Key for Eddie Howe
“This group has always been united. Yes, we’ve faced challenges, but our unity off the pitch has made us strong on it.”
“We’re working to improve the squad, keep harmony, and show fans that everyone’s fighting for the same goal.”
“We’ll be ready for the season. We need that united feel throughout the club, and that’s what we’ll fight for.”
Match Recap and Upcoming Friendly
William Sula and Aaron Ramsdale Step Up in Isak’s Absence
- William Sula started up front in the recent friendly.
- Aaron Ramsdale saved a penalty on his Newcastle debut at St. James’ Park.
Newcastle face Atletico Madrid at 3:00 PM today in their final preseason match.
Newcastle United Transfer Activity: Summer 2025
Here’s a summary of Newcastle’s confirmed signings and transfer targets this summer:
| Player Name | Position | From Club | Fee/Status |
| Anthony Elanga | Winger | Nottingham Forest | £20 million (Confirmed) |
| Park (19 y/o) | Winger | South Korea | Undisclosed (Confirmed) |
| Alexander Isak | Forward | N/A | £60m bid rejected (Liverpool) |
| Hugo | Midfielder | Feyenoord | Confirmed (Liverpool) |
| Darwin Núñez | Forward | Liverpool | Expected to leave |
Eddie Howe on Transfer Strategy and Squad Depth
“People rate transfer windows after they close last summer was called a failure, and yet we had one of our best seasons.”
“Signing players isn’t everything. But when done right, it moves the squad forward. We’re keen to refresh the group.”
“If we go into the season with the current squad, I’d proudly support them. I believe in their ability to prove people wrong again.”
Liverpool Manager Arne Slot on Isak Rumours and Squad Stability
Liverpool manager Arne Slot declined to comment directly on the Isak transfer links but addressed the current state of Liverpool’s transfer window.
“We don’t talk about players who aren’t ours. Hugo’s done really well. We’re happy with the squad.”
“We won the league last season. Yes, players have left, but we’ve added quality. Darwin might leave but nothing’s signed yet.”
