‘I hope’ – Eddie Howe’s new plea to Alexander Isak as Newcastle United trust issue emerges
Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has made it clear that he would have no reservations about placing full responsibility on Alexander Isak to lead the Magpies’ attack—should the Swedish striker be available for selection once again.
Isak, however, has thrown his future at St James’ Park into doubt after issuing a strong statement suggesting that his trust in the club has been broken. In a message that quickly caught headlines, the 24-year-old forward wrote: “When promises are broken and trust is lost, the relationship can’t continue.” His comments point to unfulfilled assurances made by the club, leaving his long-term commitment under serious question.
The timing of this fallout is significant. Newcastle have been linked with several forwards in recent weeks but have so far struggled to secure a new signing to reinforce their attack. That uncertainty means the door to an Isak return has not been completely shut, and Howe himself appears to be leaving the possibility of reconciliation open.
Speaking to the media on Friday, the Newcastle boss categorically ruled out any chance of Isak training or featuring against Liverpool in their Premier League showdown at St James’ Park. However, Howe stopped short of saying the striker’s Magpies career was over. With a trip to Leeds scheduled for August 30, the possibility remains that Isak could be re-integrated into the squad if no move materialises in the coming days.
When pressed on the issue of broken trust between player and club, Howe was quick to emphasize that his relationship with Isak has always been professional and positive. “Yes, of course, trust is earned both ways,” Howe explained. “That has to be a relationship you build. When you sign a player, you commit yourself to working on that every single day.
“I invest a huge amount of my time and effort into helping players be the best version of themselves, always trying to maximise their abilities. I’ve been on that journey with Alex, and from my perspective, there are no issues on the football side at all. I hope I can continue to work with him and get him back to his very best level.”
For now, Newcastle must turn their full attention to Liverpool. Sunday’s clash will be their first home fixture of the new campaign, and Howe is expecting an electric atmosphere at St James’ Park. “The first home game is always going to be special,” he said. “I love experiencing those nights—the energy that the supporters bring us is something unique. I’ve got no doubt that this will be a really passionate display from the home fans, and we’ll need that backing against such strong opponents.”
The Isak saga remains unresolved, but one thing is clear: Howe is leaving the door open. Whether the striker chooses to walk back through it—or seals a blockbuster move to Liverpool—will likely be decided in the days ahead.