Alexander Isak Will Not Join Newcastle’s Pre-Season Tour, Confirms Eddie Howe

Newcastle United’s manager, Eddie Howe, confirmed that striker Alexander Isak will not join them on their pre-season tour next week, ending any speculation of his immediate return to the first-team after sitting out their previous friendlies. Isak did not travel with the team for their pre-season tour in Singapore.

WHAT HAPPENED?

When asked in his press conference if there was any chance of Isak joining the squad for the summer tour, Howe responded with a definitive: “No, no chance”. The new signing will miss the remainder of Newcastle‘s pre-season preparations, which features friendlies against Arsenal in Singapore as well as another against Fiorentina or Paris Saint-Germain, before rounding off the tour with a match against Juventus.

WHY IS ISAK ABSENT?

The reason for Isak’s absence is still not known, but reports indicate he is recovering from a minor thigh problem, despite Howe being unable to guarantee his availability for the Premier League season opener against Aston Villa in 2 week’s time. He has been linked with a move away from the club, with Real Madrid recently touted as a potential destination due to their ongoing injury crisis. Additionally, Isak rejected an offer from Al Hilal as he wants to prioritize Liverpool and stay in Europe.

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR NEWCASTLE AND ISAK?

Newcastle are relaxed about Isak’s situation and do not believe he is unsettled despite interest from other clubs. However, Howe recently suggested otherwise by claiming that the striker “looked like he was struggling” in terms of his “body language” in their 3-0 defeat to Villarreal last month. It’s important to note that Isak has handed in a formal transfer request and has expressed a desire to explore a transfer this summer.