Newcastle United Manager Eddie Howe Addresses Alexander Isak Situation
Eddie Howe has stated that "everything is in play" regarding Alexander Isak, but emphasized the need for players who are genuinely eager to represent Newcastle United.
Isak has been training separately from his teammates after Howe indicated that it was "clear at the moment that we can't involve him with the group." This decision follows a rejected £110 million transfer bid from Liverpool last week.
Howe mentioned he was not informed by the club's owners about any communications to Isak regarding his potential sale, despite the Swedish international expressing a desire to explore his options.
However, the head coach underscored that "there are discussions going on all the time that I’m not party to." After Newcastle's 2-0 defeat to Atletico Madrid in a friendly match on Saturday, Howe remarked, "I think everything is in play. I’ve said many times he is contracted to us. He is our player. The club makes the decision on his future."
Howe expressed his uncertainty about the outcome but shared his preference for a strong squad, stating, "I want the best and the strongest squad possible, but I also want players that really want to play for this football club."
Isak missed the pre-season tour of Asia due to a "minor thigh injury" and has been training alone at his former club, Real Sociedad. Howe had previously warned that no player could expect to behave "poorly and train with the group as normal," but he made it clear he would like Isak to be part of the team.
When asked what changes would need to occur for that to happen, Howe replied, "That’s not for me to answer. That’s for him to answer."
Gordon 'Should Be OK' to Face Villa
In Isak's absence, Anthony Gordon took on the leading role during Newcastle's final friendly of the summer against Atletico. However, concerns arose when Gordon suffered an ankle injury late in the match, forcing him to leave the field for treatment.
Fortunately, Howe reassured that Gordon "should be OK" for the opening match against Aston Villa. This news is a relief for Newcastle, highlighting the team's current lack of depth in attack with only William Osula and Sean Neave as natural alternatives.
Gordon was active throughout the match, but it wasn’t until the 34th minute that Newcastle registered their first shot on target, with Kieran Trippier's free-kick being parried by former Atletico teammate Jan Oblak. Clearly, Howe is in need of additional striking options, regardless of Isak's situation.
While Callum Wilson did not score in the Premier League last season, his presence was valuable, and he has yet to be replaced since his departure last month.
Howe Pushes for Deals
In contrast, Atletico Madrid faced no such dilemmas. Manager Diego Simeone had the luxury of including Alexander Sorloth and Antoine Griezmann on the bench, both of whom scored a combined 41 goals for the club last season.
Julian Alvarez opened the scoring for Atletico with a well-executed breakaway goal in the 50th minute, followed by Griezmann doubling the lead with a clever flick in the second half. The presence of such talent in front of a full crowd served as a reminder of the exciting Champions League nights ahead at St James' Park this season.
Newcastle has work to do to be ready for these high-stakes matches, but Howe remains "hopeful" about making new signings, with the club reportedly interested in AC Milan defender Malick Thiaw and Brentford striker Yoane Wissa.
Elanga Makes Home Debut
This transfer window has been frustrating for Newcastle, as they have missed out on several targets. However, Saturday marked the first opportunity for supporters to see Anthony Elanga in a Newcastle shirt at home.
Despite setbacks in their pursuit of players such as Benjamin Sesko, Hugo Ekitike, Joao Pedro, and James Trafford, Elanga expressed that moving to Tyneside felt like the "right choice."
Elanga showcased glimpses of his one-on-one ability, particularly in the final ten minutes of the first half when he made attempts to break past Atletico defender Matteo Ruggeri. Although his crosses were not converted, it was clear that Elanga has the potential to fit well into the team.
Ultimately, Howe is eager to secure one or two more additions before the season kicks off next week.