Premier League club Newcastle United and striker Alexander Isak are on a collision course, and it appears a sad ending is on the cards.
Isak has been in the news in the past few weeks, with reports claiming he is forcing a move to reigning champions, Liverpool.
Newcastle, however, have thus far refused to sanction a transfer despite reports that the Reds are willing to part with a whopping £130 million (R3 billion) to buy him.
Isak has since been frozen out by manager Eddie Howe, but he has broken his silence in a statement.
“When promises are broken and trust is lost, the relationship can’t continue,” stated the Swedish marksman, who has been at Newcastle United since 2022.
“I’m proud to be recognized by my fellow professionals with a place in the PFA Premier League Team of the Season for 2024/25.
“First and foremost, I want to thank my teammates and everyone at Newcastle United who have supported me along the way,” said Isak, who missed the ceremony in Manchester.
“With everything going on, it didn’t feel right to be there,” he continued.
“I’ve kept quiet for a long time while others have spoken. That silence has allowed people to push their own version of events, even though they know it doesn’t reflect what was really said and agreed upon behind closed doors.
“The reality is that promises were made, and the club has known my position for a long time. To now act as if these issues are only emerging is misleading.
“When promises are broken and trust is lost, the relationship can’t continue. That’s where things are for me right now—and why change is in the best interests of everyone, not just myself.”
In response, Newcastle United have expressed their disappointment in Isak.
“We are disappointed to have been alerted to a social media post by Alexander Isak this evening,” responded Newcastle.
“We are clear in response that Alex remains under contract and that no commitment has ever been made by a club official that Alex can leave Newcastle United this summer.
“We want to keep our best players, but we also understand players have their own wishes, and we listen to their views. As explained to Alex and his representatives, we must always take into consideration the best interests of Newcastle United, the team, and our supporters in all decisions, and we have been clear that the conditions of a sale this summer have not transpired.
“We do not foresee those conditions being met.
“This is a proud football club with proud traditions, and we strive to retain our family feel. Alex remains part of our family and will be welcomed back when he is ready to rejoin his teammates.”
