Newcastle United defender Emile Krafth has responded to dramatic rumors suggesting that Alexander Isak’s departure caused tension within the team.
Isak’s drawn-out transfer saga concluded on deadline day, with the striker completing a £125 million move to Liverpool—a British record fee. In order to force the transfer, Isak reportedly went on strike at Newcastle and has yet to play this season. Despite that, he was selected for Sweden’s World Cup qualifiers, impressing Liverpool fans after training footage surfaced online.
Krafth, who also earned a call-up to Sweden’s squad under coach Jon Dahl Tomasson, addressed the situation in a media interview. He dismissed suggestions that Isak’s exit disrupted the Newcastle dressing room.
“Many of us wanted Alex to stay, but that’s football,” he told Swedish outlet Sportbladet. “I wish him the best—he’s not just a teammate, he’s also a close friend.”
He went on to reject reports of internal division: “The media claimed the dressing room was split, but that’s completely false. Footballers understand each other. Everyone just wishes him well.”
Krafth added that fellow international Anthony Elanga had also played down the controversy: “It’s been really calm. No drama at all. The rumors are baseless. Of course, the club wanted to keep him—he’s a fantastic player.”
Isak was an unused substitute in Sweden’s 2-2 draw with Slovenia on Friday. Their qualifying campaign continues Monday against Kosovo. It’s unclear whether Isak will feature, as Arsenal’s Viktor Gyökeres started up front in the previous match.
Isak could make his Liverpool debut on September 14 when they face Burnley in the Premier League.
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