Newcastle United’s preparations for their first home game of the season have been overshadowed by Alexander Isak’s public statement accusing the club of breaking promises over his desired move to Liverpool. The Swedish striker claims Newcastle had vowed to allow him to leave St James’ Park this summer, only for the Magpies to reject a £110m bid from the Premier League champions.
The club swiftly responded, stressing that they had no plans to sanction Isak’s departure before the transfer deadline. But the fallout has been severe: the forward has stayed away from training in protest, deepening the rift between player and club.
Manager Eddie Howe described the saga as a “sad moment,” admitting he would rather such issues were handled privately. “The club has to act in the best interests of Newcastle United,” he said. “He’s contracted to us. He’s our player. My wish is that he would be playing on Monday. He won’t be, and that’s regrettable. But 100 per cent I want him back in a Newcastle shirt.”
Despite the tension, Howe believes the situation can still be repaired. He insisted that Isak’s relationship with supporters—who will pack out St. James’ Park for Monday’s clash with Liverpool—remains salvageable:
“The fans will always react to the way a player plays. There are always two sides to a story. I hope I can work with him again.”
In more positive news for Newcastle, £40m signing Jacob Ramsey is set to be involved after joining from Aston Villa. Howe praised the young midfielder’s intelligence and technical ability, tipping him to bring “standout qualities” to the side.
The Tactical Journal 
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