'We want to keep our best players, but..': Newcastle condemn Isak after club is accused of breaking promises

The relationship between Newcastle United and Alexander Isak has deteriorated significantly, with both parties openly criticising each other. They are at odds over the player’s future at the club. Given that the Swedish striker did not join the team during preseason and trained separately, it is evident that he seeks a move away from St. James’ Park in the ongoing summer transfer window. With Liverpool’s interest reportedly hovering, a transfer to Anfield remains possible.

However, Newcastle is determined to keep him and even rejected a substantial £110 million bid from the Reds. According to English media, Newcastle values the player at £150 million and is unlikely to consider letting him go without securing that amount.

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Isak calls it quits with Newcastle

Amid the drama, Isak did not turn up at the PFA awards ceremony on Tuesday night, and following that, he released a lengthy statement on Instagram, explaining why he chose to miss the event.

“I’m proud to be recognised by my fellow professionals with a place in the PFA Premier League Team of the Season for 2024/25. First and foremost I want to thank my teammates and everyone at Newcastle United who has supported me along the way," he wrote.

“I’m not at the ceremony tonight. With everything going on, it didn’t feel right to be there. I’ve kept quiet for a long time while others have spoken. That silence has allowed people to push their own version of events, even though they know it doesn’t reflect what was really said and agreed behind closed doors."

Frustrated with his situation, Isak claims that the club did not keep its promises, and hence, the relationship has completely tarnished. He concluded by hinting that parting ways with Newcastle would be the best course for him as well as the club.

“The reality is that promises were made, and the club has known my position for a long time. To now act as if these issues are only emerging is misleading. When promises are broken and trust is lost, the relationship can’t continue. That’s where things are for me right now - and why change is in the best interests of everyone, not just myself. Alexander Isak.”

Newcastle condemn Isak’s statement

In response to Alexander Isak’s statement, Newcastle United have condemned the player’s remarks. The club stated that Isak remains under contract and, despite the situation, he is welcome to return whenever he is ready.

“We are disappointed to have been alerted to a social media post by Alexander Isak this evening. We are clear in response that Alex remains under contract and that no commitment has ever been made by a club official that Alex can leave Newcastle United this summer,” the statement read.

“We want to keep our best players, but we also understand players have their own wishes and we listen to their views. As explained to Alex and his representatives, we must always take into consideration the best interests of Newcastle United, the team and our supporters in all decisions and we have been clear that the conditions of a sale this summer have not transpired.

“We do not foresee those conditions being met. This is a proud football club with proud traditions and we strive to retain our family feel. Alex remains part of our family and will be welcomed back when he is ready to rejoin his teammates.”

Will Isak return to training with Newcastle? It looks unlikely as the relationship looks broken beyond repair and Newcastle is probably just trying to increase his price by playing hardball with Liverpool.