Newcastle boss reflects on Isak ‘strike’ that forced Liverpool switch | OneFootball

Howe Reflects on Isak Exit and Changing Relationship at Newcastle

Howe Admits Relationship Shift with Isak

Eddie Howe has offered an honest assessment of how his relationship with Alexander Isak changed in the final weeks of the striker’s Newcastle career. Speaking to reporters for the first time since the transfer saga ended, Howe admitted that “communication between the pair became difficult” once Isak began to push for a move to Liverpool.

“Alex and I always enjoyed a great relationship,” Howe said. “I loved working with him. I hope he enjoyed working with us. It was mutually beneficial. We helped him become the player he in part is today and he helped us as a team achieve some unbelievable milestones and was part of a very successful team. The moment he went on strike our relationship did change and that was probably a turning point in our relationship.”

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Isak’s decision to train away from the group and sit out Newcastle’s opening three games forced the club to make a decision. Eventually, Liverpool’s British-record £125 million offer was accepted on deadline day, ending weeks of speculation.

Newcastle’s First Major Sale Under Howe

Isak’s departure marks the first major sale of Howe’s tenure. Newcastle initially rejected Liverpool’s £110 million bid but sanctioned the deal after signing Nick Woltemade from Stuttgart and lining up a deal for Yoane Wissa.

Photo: IMAGO

Howe stressed that Newcastle remain committed to retaining their top talent: “That’s what we want to do. We want to create an environment and home for them that they love being at. But I would say Alex was very much part of that and loved his time here so I don’t think that was the issue. I think the issue for him was more when the other club came [in], that then changed his thought process. I never had a day where Alex didn’t look like he enjoyed being at Newcastle. 100%.”

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Building for the Future

With Isak gone, Newcastle’s squad depth has been tested. They will once again be light in attack when Wolves visit St James’ Park on Saturday, with Anthony Gordon suspended and Jacob Ramsey still sidelined. Wissa’s knee issue further complicates matters, though Woltemade is expected to make his debut after his £69 million arrival.

Photo: NUFC Twitter

Newcastle’s summer recruitment faced challenges as other targets, including Hugo Ekitike, Benjamin Sesko and Joao Pedro, secured moves elsewhere. Howe underlined the importance of finding players who are fully committed to the project: “It’s absolutely crucial. It’s very difficult to work with players that don’t want to be at any football club. For me, it’s one of the most important things you look for in a player, especially when recruiting players.”

Howe on Desire and Commitment

Howe reflected on the traits shared by Newcastle’s most influential signings. “In all the successful transfers we have had since I have been here, the players have been undoubted in their desire and want to sign for the football club for many different reasons. That could be multi-functional, but you can see that want and drive from them to be here and then that helps in their performance. In any difficult moments that they face, their love for the club and environment shines through.”

Isak’s exit may be a painful moment for Newcastle supporters, but Howe’s words show a manager focused on players who share his vision. The relationship may have fractured, but Newcastle’s rebuild continues with a commitment to character as well as quality.