Newcastle United’s standoff with star striker Alexander Isak has sparked fresh controversy, as club legend Alan Shearer weighed in on the escalating situation. Following reports of a massive Liverpool bid and Isak’s public plea to leave, Shearer believes the Swedish forward is handling matters poorly—damaging both his reputation and the club in the process.
A Club-Player Divide Reaches Boiling Point
The tensions between Alexander Isak and Newcastle United have intensified after the striker took to social media to claim the club had broken promises regarding his future. The 25-year-old forward, who joined Newcastle for a record fee in 2022 and has since scored 62 goals, is currently training away from the first team and missed their Premier League opener against Aston Villa.
This public fallout comes amid reported interest from Liverpool, who are said to have tabled a £110 million offer earlier this month. Newcastle, however, insist they never committed to selling Isak, who is contracted until 2028.
sak’s Public Statement Fuels the Fire
Isak broke his silence on Tuesday with a pointed message posted to Instagram, stating his desire to leave St. James’ Park.
When promises are broken and trust is lost, the relationship can’t continue, Change is in the best interests of everyone, not just myself.
Alexander Isak
The forward criticized the club’s narrative and suggested that discussions about his future had long been underway, dismissing claims that the dispute had only recently surfaced.
Newcastle’s Response: No Sale on the Table
Newcastle United quickly countered Isak’s claims with a formal statement, reaffirming their stance:
Alex remains under contract… and we want to keep our best players, We listen to our players, but no acceptable sale conditions have been met, and we do not foresee them being met this summer.
Newcastle response
The club emphasized that while player opinions are respected, final decisions must align with Newcastle’s long-term goals and responsibilities to fans.
Shearer: “It’s a Mess—And It Helps No One”
Former Newcastle striker and Premier League icon Alan Shearer expressed his disappointment over the way the situation has unfolded. Speaking to Betfair, Shearer acknowledged that Isak has a right to share his side but criticized the timing and method.
Even releasing the statement last night has thrown fuel onto the fire, It’s very, very messy for him and for the football club. It doesn’t benefit anyone.
Alan Shearer
He went on to question the influence of Isak’s representatives, suggesting the striker may be following misguided advice.
I think he’s being given bad advice. The way he’s going about it is wrong, It’s not a good look to refuse to train or play when you’re under contract.
Alan Shearer
What’s Next for Isak and Newcastle?
Despite the tension, Shearer didn’t completely rule out the possibility of reconciliation between player and club. Newcastle face Liverpool on Monday—a match now clouded by the ongoing transfer saga.
Isak’s absence from the PFA Premier League Team of the Year ceremony, despite being selected, is another indicator of the strained relationship. As the clock ticks on the summer transfer window, both sides may need to rethink their approach if they’re to find a resolution that serves their best interests.
