Alexander Isak Refuses to Play for Newcastle Amid Liverpool Interest

Striker Alexander Isak has shown his desire to leave Newcastle United this summer after a standout season where he scored 23 Premier League goals. Despite a £110 million bid from Liverpool being rejected last month, Newcastle reportedly value him closer to £150 million.

In an effort to secure a move, Isak initially claimed injury to skip Newcastle’s pre-season tour, then traveled to Spain to train at his former club, Real Sociedad. With a second bid anticipated from Liverpool, the Swedish international has now gone on strike, refusing to participate in matches for Newcastle, a development criticized by former player Wayne Rooney and pundit Alan Shearer on Match of the Day.

Isak was absent from Newcastle’s recent matchday squad during their goalless draw at Aston Villa. Rooney commented on the situation, stating, “Refusing to train makes it hard for him to return. There’s a trust element, and he’s handling it the wrong way. For a club like Newcastle, it raises questions about the player’s commitment.”

Rooney, who also experienced a high-profile transfer saga at Manchester United, reflected on his own approach, emphasizing the importance of doing things properly. “There’s a right way to leave a club, and refusing to play isn’t it,” Rooney explained, criticizing Isak’s method as damaging to team morale.

Newcastle faces Liverpool at St James’ Park next week, but it’s unlikely they will sell before then without a significant offer. The club is also looking to replace Isak, with targets like Rasmus Hojlund under consideration, especially after missing out on several leading players this summer.

The transfer controversy has overshadowed Newcastle’s campaign, but optimism persists as the club explores its options ahead of the new season.

Wayne Rooney was highly critical of Alexander Isak’s recent conduct during a segment on Match of the Day.

The Swedish striker currently refuses to play for Newcastle amid interest from Liverpool.

Last month, Newcastle rejected a £110 million bid from Arne Slot’s team for Isak.