Alexander Isak has been named in Sweden’s squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers despite transfer speculation linking him to Liverpool. Isak has expressed his desire to leave Newcastle, accusing the club of breaking promises. Sweden coach Jon Dahl Tomasson values Isak’s ability to decide matches and believes the World Cup is important for him. Arsenal’s Viktor Gyokeres will also feature for Sweden, who face Slovenia and Kosovo in their Group B campaign.
Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak has been named in the Sweden squad for their upcoming World Cup qualifiers, a decision that arrives amidst intense speculation regarding his potential transfer to Liverpool. The talented forward has yet to feature for the Magpies this season, fueling rumors of his imminent departure as he seeks a move to the Premier League giants.
Isak's absence from Newcastle's training sessions has further intensified the transfer saga, with reports suggesting that he has explicitly expressed his desire to join Liverpool. It is understood that the Merseyside club has already submitted a bid for the Swedish international, only to see it turned down by Newcastle.
Adding fuel to the fire, Isak recently took to social media to voice his frustration, accusing Newcastle of reneging on a promise to allow him to leave St James' Park during the current transfer window. Despite having three years remaining on his contract, the 25-year-old believes he had an agreement with the club that would facilitate his exit if a suitable offer arrived.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding his club future, Sweden coach Jon Dahl Tomasson has included Isak in his squad for the crucial World Cup qualifiers against Slovenia and Kosovo. Tomasson's decision underscores the importance of Isak to the Swedish national team, recognizing his ability to make a significant impact on the pitch.
Nu inleds resan mot VM 2026
| 5 sep
| 8 sep pic.twitter.com/0JFVHwUyMi— Svensk Fotboll (@svenskfotboll) August 27, 2025
"I am very happy that Alexander Isak wants to be in the squad," Tomasson stated. "He is a huge player. The situation he is in is not perfect, and he has not trained with the team. But he is a player who can decide matches, and he wants to be part of our squad. The World Cup is important for Alexander Isak."
Tomasson acknowledges Isak's current predicament but emphasizes his importance to the team. The coach believes that Isak's presence, even amidst the transfer turmoil, will significantly boost the squad's chances in the upcoming qualifiers. His words show the importance the Swede has on his national side.
The call-up suggests that Tomasson is confident that Isak can put aside his club issues and focus on representing his country with pride. The coach is likely hoping that the opportunity to play in crucial World Cup qualifiers will provide Isak with a welcome distraction from the ongoing transfer saga.
Adding further firepower to the Swedish attack is Arsenal forward Viktor Gyokeres, who will also feature for the Blagult. Gyokeres has been in impressive form for the Gunners, and his inclusion will provide Tomasson with another potent attacking option.
Sweden are placed in Group B for their World Cup qualifying campaign, and they will begin their quest for a place in the tournament with a match against Slovenia on September 5. Three days later, they will travel to Pristina to face Kosovo in their second group game.
These two matches will be crucial for Sweden as they look to get their qualifying campaign off to a strong start. Tomasson will be relying on his key players, including Isak and Gyokeres, to deliver the goods and secure valuable points.
The Isak transfer saga continues to rumble on, with Liverpool reportedly weighing up their next move. The Reds are keen to add another striker to their ranks, and Isak is believed to be high on their list of targets. However, Newcastle are determined to keep hold of their prized asset, and they are likely to demand a hefty fee for his services.
It remains to be seen whether Liverpool will be willing to meet Newcastle's valuation of Isak. The transfer window is set to close soon, so the Reds will need to act quickly if they are to secure his signature. Meanwhile, Isak will be hoping to put the transfer speculation behind him and focus on helping Sweden achieve their World Cup ambitions.
The next few weeks promise to be eventful for both Isak and Sweden. The outcome of the transfer saga and the results of the World Cup qualifiers will have a significant impact on the player's career and the nation's footballing aspirations.