Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has expressed his hope that Alexander Isak will remain with the club, despite ongoing speculation about the Swedish forward's potential departure. Isak, who has reportedly expressed a desire to leave the Magpies, is currently training separately from the team and will miss Monday's crucial Premier League fixture against Liverpool at St. James' Park.
Isak's absence is a significant blow to Newcastle, given his impressive form last season. He scored 23 Premier League goals, second only to Liverpool's Mohammed Salah (29), and also found the net in the EFL Cup final against Liverpool, a match that secured Newcastle's first major trophy in 56 years. His contributions were vital to the team's success, making him a highly valued player for the club and its supporters.
In a statement released earlier this week, Isak cited "broken promises" as the primary reason for his desire to leave Newcastle. While the specific nature of these promises remains unclear, they have clearly created a rift between the player and the club. Howe acknowledged that he has held conversations with Isak regarding his future, but described the situation as "regrettable."
"Me and Alex had conversations, yes I’m not going to deny that," Howe said in his press conference. "Individual conversations are better off remaining private. Yes, we had conversations about his future. This situation is regrettable. Not something we wanted or Alex wanted. I’m talking about his conduct every day, his professionalism, he is very committed, very driven, and very professional. Others can make their own opinion, but I’m giving you background about the player I know everyday. Trust is earnt both ways and that has to be a relationship that you develop. I’ve gone on that journey with Alex so I don’t think we have any issues on a footballing side at all. I hope I can work with him again and get him back to his very best."
Howe's comments suggest that he is keen to resolve the situation and retain Isak's services. He praised the player's professionalism and commitment, emphasizing that their relationship remains strong on the footballing side. Howe's desire to continue working with Isak indicates the manager's belief in the player's ability and his importance to the team's future.
Former Newcastle player Alan Shearer, along with Wayne Rooney, have suggested that the Newcastle squad may not welcome Isak back if he has expressed a desire to leave. However, Howe holds a different view. He believes that the players would welcome Isak back into the fold if he decided to commit to the club.
"There is no doubt how the players will feel, they will feel the same way as I do," Howe said. "Alex is an outstanding player and a very good person and a good character. He wants to succeed in his career and this has been a really difficult situation for him and for the players that we have to see us without him. If Alex decided to come back and play for us the players would welcome him back."
Howe concluded by reiterating his desire to see Isak back in a Newcastle shirt. "Of course [I want him to], he is contracted to us and he is our player. My wish is that he will be playing with us on Monday and 100% I want to see him back in a Newcastle shirt." The manager's clear and unwavering support for Isak suggests that Newcastle will do everything within their power to convince the player to stay.
The situation surrounding Isak's future remains uncertain. Whether he will remain at Newcastle or seek a move elsewhere remains to be seen. However, Howe's comments indicate that the club is keen to keep him and that the door remains open for him to return to the team. The coming days and weeks will likely be crucial in determining Isak's future and whether he will continue to be a part of Newcastle's plans.
