Alexander Isak Near Return to Play Amid Transfer Saga

Despite a prolonged absence and going on strike to push for a transfer to Liverpool, Alexander Isak is expected to feature in his first match in over three months.

The Swedish international has refused to play for Newcastle, expressing his desire to move to Anfield after a bid of £110 million was turned down. Nonetheless, he has been selected for Sweden’s upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Slovenia and Kosovo, set for early September.

Sweden manager Jon Dahl Tomasson commented on Isak’s situation: “It’s hard to form a clear opinion due to limited information. We need to be cautious about assumptions. Alex is professional, resilient, and a game-changer. He’s mentally strong and has kept his focus.”

Isak’s last game for Newcastle was on May 25, and he has not participated in pre-season training, having trained separately as his stand-off with the club continues. Despite this, he remains in Sweden’s squad, which also includes teammates Emil Krafth, Anthony Elanga, and new Arsenal signing Viktor Gyokeres. The extent of his involvement in the qualifiers is uncertain.

Recently, Isak made headlines with an intense social media statement, accusing Newcastle of breaking promises and asserting that their relationship cannot continue. The club maintains he is not for sale and has made efforts to reconcile, including a meeting at his home involving key club officials and discussions of a possible new contract.

While Newcastle’s chairman Yasir Al-Rumayyan supported efforts to bring Isak back, manager Eddie Howe stated he was not involved in the negotiations. Teammate Bruno Guimaraes admitted he has not spoken to the striker during the situation but expressed that the team misses him and hopes he will return soon.

Alexander Isak is set to return to action after a three-month hiatus.