Michael Owen speaks out on Alexander Isak statement as ‘dirty’ claim made by ex-Liverpool and Newcastle star

Michael Owen Weighs In on Alexander Isak’s Explosive Transfer Saga

Michael Owen has broken his silence on the ongoing Alexander Isak saga, offering his unique insight into the Newcastle United striker’s explosive social media statement and the tug-of-war between Liverpool and the Magpies as the summer transfer window edges towards its conclusion.

 

With just under two weeks left before the window slams shut, the biggest talking point in English football remains whether Isak will get his wish and secure a sensational switch to Liverpool, the reigning Premier League champions. The Sweden international has been at the centre of transfer speculation for much of the summer, with Jurgen Klopp’s side long admiring his pace, finishing ability, and physical presence.

 

While Newcastle have stood firm and insisted they have no plans to sell their prized forward, tensions escalated dramatically on Tuesday evening when Isak published a strongly worded statement online. In it, he accused the club of going back on promises allegedly made behind closed doors and declared his desire for a fresh challenge.

 

Now, speaking exclusively to SPORTbible via 247Bet, former Liverpool and Newcastle United striker Michael Owen has given his verdict on the saga, providing valuable perspective from a man who knows both clubs intimately.

 

Owen, who famously came through Liverpool’s academy and went on to score 158 goals in 297 appearances for the Reds before sealing a high-profile move to Real Madrid in 2004, also spent several seasons at St James’ Park in the later stages of his career. With that experience, he understands the pressures on both the player and the clubs involved.

 

“It’s been fascinating to watch unfold,” Owen said. “Isak has stayed very quiet throughout all the noise, and despite people talking as if he’s been making comments every week, this is actually the first time he’s spoken out.

 

“He’s essentially clarified things for the public, and it’s interesting that he suggests talks about him potentially leaving happened a long time ago. From his point of view, he feels the club have gone back on their word.

 

“You’ve got to look at what he’s done for Newcastle. He’s scored goals, helped them back into the Champions League, won them silverware. But at the same time, footballers only get one short career. If he sees this as his one big chance to play for arguably the best team in the world, you can understand why he’s pushing for it. Still, Newcastle hold all the cards because he’s under contract.”

 

Owen went on to address the controversial manner in which Isak has chosen to express his frustration, admitting that while he doesn’t necessarily condone the actions, he recognises them as part of the modern game.

 

“Sadly, if you’re trying to force a move, it’s never pretty,” Owen explained. “Whether that means refusing to play or submitting a transfer request, these are the extreme actions players sometimes take. Isak is clearly doing everything possible to get this move, and while I don’t agree with all of it, I understand it. And let’s be honest—most footballers would do the same in his shoes.

 

“You hear pundits criticising him, but I guarantee many of those same pundits would have taken the same steps if it meant securing their dream transfer. He’s not a local lad who’s come through the ranks at Newcastle—he’s a top-level striker trying to make the most of a short career window.”

 

Interestingly, Owen also reminded fans that clubs themselves are often guilty of mistreating players when it suits them, a fact many critics seem to overlook in this debate.

 

“People forget that when clubs want rid of someone, they can be ruthless,” Owen said. “Players get pushed out all the time against their will, contracts or not, and nobody bats an eyelid. But when a player stands up and tries to take control of his own future, suddenly it’s seen as the worst thing in the world. The truth is, both sides play the game when it comes to transfers.”

 

Newcastle wasted little time in responding to Isak’s bombshell statement, issuing their own official announcement shortly afterwards. The club expressed disappointment at the striker’s public comments but doubled down on their stance that the 25-year-old will not be leaving Tyneside this summer. They confirmed that while tensions are high, their plan is still to reintegrate Isak into Eddie Howe’s squad as quickly as possible.

 

For now, the standoff continues. With Liverpool waiting in the wings and Newcastle adamant they won’t be forced into a sale, the next fortnight promises to be decisive in determining whether Isak remains a Magpie or achieves his dream of becoming the latest star at Anfield.