In a week of speculation surrounding Alexander Isak’s future, Newcastle United made it clear that their star striker is not for sale, amid increased interest from clubs like Liverpool and Arsenal. The club’s management reaffirmed their stance after sending Isak home prior to a friendly match against Celtic, where the team suffered a disappointing defeat. Head coach Eddie Howe expressed his confidence that Isak will remain with Newcastle as the transfer window approaches its conclusion.
Isak, who banged in 23 Premier League goals last season, was a glaring absence in the first leg against Celtic. His absence underscored how incredibly important he is to the team. In addition to Isak, Joelinton sat out the match, though he was seen in the crowd. Howe said both players were clear, but the minutes would have to be managed at this early stage of pre-season.
Newcastle’s Firm Stance on Isak
Newcastle’s determination to hold Alexander Isak this summer has been clear throughout this week. Liverpool are increasing their efforts to sign the player. FIFA TMS Additionally, the club has continued to signal that he’s completely off limits at any price. Newcastle reportedly value the Swede at a jaw-dropping £150 million. This demonstrates their great commitment to retaining him as an essential part of their team.
Eddie Howe addressed the situation directly, stating, “I’m confident he will be a Newcastle player come the end of the window.” That confidence is impressive all on its own, considering the rumors and speculation swirling about potential transfers to competing clubs. The decision to send Isak home before facing Celtic was made to alleviate distractions concerning his future and ensure focus on team preparations.
By sending Isak home, Howe sent a message that he wanted to protect the player from any distractions. He did not want to overburden Isak with pre-season fixtures. On the broader issue of Isak, this decision illustrates just how much Newcastle intend to handle Isak’s development and introduction for next season.
Reflections on the Friendly Match
Newcastle’s embarrassing 3-0 loss to Celtic was the type of slap in the face needed to alert the club. Even sports journalist Keith Downie lamented that Newcastle will be without players such as Isak and Joelinton. Celtic look as though they are miles ahead in terms of pre-season.
“Yes, Newcastle are missing the likes of Isak, Joelinton, Tino Livramento and Lewis Hall, but Celtic have been streets ahead.” – Keith Downie
Howe admitted the team needs to improve in-game, accepting that they are currently not as fit or sharp as Celtic. He remarked on the lessons learned from this encounter, stating, “They’re way ahead of us fitness wise. It’s a useful lesson for us to learn.” He admitted that the goals conceded were among the poorest aspects of their performance and emphasized that they were reactive rather than proactive on the field.
Even with the loss, Howe is confident about his team’s prospects as they gear up for the 2022-23 season. She is cognizant that there might be a need to make more signings to strengthen the squad even more.
Looking Ahead
Newcastle United is now entering the next phase of their pre-season training. Howe made clear that avoiding injuries and keeping players in top shape will be key to succeeding. With Isak and other key players unavailable, questions persist about the squad’s depth. Over the last couple of weeks, this fear has only compounded and intensified given that the team has made just one new signing this whole summer transfer window.
“Newcastle fans will be thinking that they need to add more signings – they’ve only added Elanga so far this summer but on this showing, they’ll need a few more.” – Keith Downie
As rumors swirl about possible moves, the front office at Newcastle is under pressure to improve the squad. While the Glasgow Celtic loss was hard to watch, it exposed some seams that might be in need of repair via tactical signings.
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