Michael Owen’s reaction to Alexander Isak’s £125 million move to Liverpool on deadline day has stirred debate. Owen, who played for both Liverpool and Newcastle, remains a controversial figure at both clubs due to being viewed as a mercenary after switching to Manchester United.
Similarly, Isak’s move has sparked mixed feelings. The Swedish striker appeared to burn bridges at Newcastle by publicly accusing the club’s Saudi-led ownership of broken promises, refusing to play again, and leaving without thanking fans who adored him. Many supporters now view his legacy negatively.
However, football often rewards ambition, and Isak has secured the high-profile transfer he desired. Once back from international duty, he will join a potent Liverpool attack featuring Mohamed Salah, Hugo Ekitike, and Florian Wirtz.
Though Isak’s exit was far from graceful, Owen made a valid comparison to Marc Guehi. Guehi, praised for his professionalism, saw his hoped-for move to Liverpool collapse at the last minute despite staying committed to Crystal Palace throughout the process.
Owen’s tweet sparked discussion about how players handle transfer sagas: striking and refusing to play is controversial but has forced moves, like Yoane Wissa’s switch from Brentford to Newcastle, while Guehi quietly stayed professional but missed out. Owen posted:
“Hmmm. Behave badly and get the move you want. Behave like a gentleman and miss out on the opportunity of a lifetime. No prizes for guessing how players will act in the future if this is the result.”
Guehi’s case grew more dramatic when his farewell video leaked after his transfer fell through. Reports suggested Crystal Palace’s boss Oliver Glasner threatened to resign if chairman Steve Parish approved the £35 million deal. Still, Liverpool hope to revisit Guehi’s transfer within the next year when his contract ends and Ibrahima Konate might move to Real Madrid.
Reactions to Owen’s comments were mixed. Some understood his point, but many rejected it, unable to separate it from Owen’s own controversial career moves over a decade ago that still affect his reputation. One user wrote, “Same way you behaved and got your move,” while another added, “Advice on professionalism from the man who forced a move to Madrid and then wore a United shirt. Truly the moral compass football needed.”
Others called Owen and Isak “rats” and expressed surprise at his tweet given his history. Another user highlighted Eberechi Eze’s example, saying, “This take is really absurd. Where’s the class and professionalism? Eze got his wish after playing for Palace. Teach the younger ones to handle such situations properly instead of tarnishing their names for personal gain.”
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