Alexander Isak’s ‘shocking’ behaviour torn into with Roy Keane and Ian Wright in disbelief
Alexander Isak Faces Backlash from Roy Keane and Ian Wright Over Newcastle Exit Standoff
Wantaway Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak has come under heavy criticism from football icons Roy Keane and Ian Wright, with the latter branding the Swede’s recent conduct as “shocking.”
The 25-year-old forward appears determined to force a move away from St James’ Park this summer. His stance follows Liverpool’s failed attempt to sign him, with the Premier League champions having a £110 million bid rejected earlier this month. While Isak has not officially handed in a transfer request, multiple reports suggest he has privately made it clear that he does not intend to play for Eddie Howe’s side again.
Speaking on The Overlap’s Rest is Football podcast, former Manchester United captain Keane and Arsenal legend Wright expressed their disbelief at the situation, which has quickly escalated into a bitter transfer saga on Tyneside.
> “It doesn’t look good,” Wright remarked. “The behaviour? It’s shocking. Absolutely shocking. I don’t know what’s going on with his agent – whether they’ve handled this badly – but if Liverpool really wanted him, they should have just gone in and paid the £150 million Newcastle are asking.”
The situation is believed to have been complicated by a previous verbal agreement involving Amanda Staveley, Newcastle’s former director and minority co-owner. Staveley had reportedly assured Isak that contract talks over improved terms would take place before the start of the new season. However, before any meeting could happen, she left the club.
In her place came new sporting director Paul Mitchell, who is said to have backtracked on those discussions – a decision that appears to have frustrated Isak and his representatives. Wright acknowledged that unfulfilled promises may have played a role in souring relations but stressed that this did not excuse the player’s current stance.
> “Maybe it was about a contract, more money, or just a gentleman’s agreement,” Wright added. “But now she’s gone, and it’s not been followed through. Still, you’ve signed a deal. You’ve got to honour that until something changes.”
Isak’s absence from Newcastle’s pre-season has only intensified tensions. He missed the squad’s tour of the Far East and has been training away from the first team. Reports even claim he skipped a team barbecue, further underlining his isolation from the group.
Keane, known for his no-nonsense views, was scathing in his assessment of the Swedish striker’s refusal to train with his teammates.
> “I’m always wary when a player says, ‘I was promised something.’ You’re already on a contract. You can be disappointed with the club, sure, but you still train, you still play,” Keane said. “If you want to leave, fine – but keep yourself fit and professional. This is a team that just had a brilliant season and is back in the Champions League, not a club in crisis.”
Wright, while critical, also pointed out that Newcastle had put themselves in a strong bargaining position by signing Isak to a six-year deal in 2022 without a release clause. This means the club can dictate the terms of his departure.
> “From Newcastle’s perspective, they’re right to hold their ground,” Wright concluded. “If they sell, it should be for the price they want. No less.”
Liverpool have yet to return with an improved offer since their opening bid was rejected. As things stand, Isak’s future remains uncertain, with the clock ticking toward the transfer deadline. Meanwhile, Newcastle have pressed ahead with their preparations for Saturday’s Premier League opener against Aston Villa, making it clear they are ready to start the season – with or without their unsettled star striker.