There still seems to be some disagreement about how much Newcastle failed to keep promises made to Alexander Isak.
The Swedish international seems to believe that Newcastle was aware he planned to leave the club during the summer transfer window.
Recent remarks from head coach Eddie Howe suggest that the club was indeed informed about the 25-year-old’s intentions.
Eddie Howe confirms Alexander Isak’s plans to leave
The English coach told the media (as reported on X by Ben Jacobs) that discussions had taken place with Isak regarding his future.
This doesn’t exactly reflect well on Newcastle, who have often criticized the former Real Sociedad striker for refusing to participate in the club’s pre-season activities.
On Newcastle’s side, they have every right to secure a potential replacement before letting go of their key player.
That said, the frustration within Isak’s camp over the club’s clumsy handling of the summer transfer window is understandable.
Joao Pedro has moved to Chelsea, Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko have joined Manchester United, and it remains uncertain if Newcastle will successfully sign Yoane Wissa.
Calling it incompetence might even be an understatement!
Newcastle are damaging their future prospects
The fact is, Newcastle’s mishandling of the Alexander Isak situation is doing more harm than good.
Yes, club officials at St James’ Park could argue that by holding on to Isak against his wishes, they ensure having at least one quality striker by the end of the window.
However, the real question is whether Newcastle wants a frustrated and unhappy Isak in their squad.
More importantly, are their Premier League rivals not worried that it might take time to reintegrate the player if he is even willing to come back?
Additionally, isn’t the club concerned that Isak’s value could drop if his strike continues into the 2025/26 season?
Is Newcastle prepared to face that risk if they fail to sign Wissa or another suitable replacement?
This is a huge mess Newcastle has created for themselves—seemingly in a futile effort to control the narrative.