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Alexander Isak has launched an extraordinary attack on Newcastle United, claiming the club has betrayed his trust and broken promises over his future.
In a strongly worded social media post on Tuesday night, the Sweden international said their relationship “could not continue”, intensifying his long-running push for a move to Liverpool.
The striker, who hit 27 goals in 42 appearances last season, has been at the centre of a tense summer standoff. Liverpool have already seen a £110m offer rejected, while Newcastle insist they will not sell without first securing a replacement.
Isak was absent from the Professional Footballers’ Association awards ceremony in Manchester on Tuesday, despite being named in the Premier League team of the year and nominated for the player of the year award. Explaining his absence, he wrote:
“I’m not at the ceremony tonight. With everything going on, it didn’t feel right to be there."
“I’ve kept quiet for a long time while others have spoken. That silence has allowed people to push their own version of events, even though they know it doesn’t reflect what was really said and agreed behind closed doors."
“The reality is that promises were made and the club has known my position for a long time. To now act as if these issues are only emerging is misleading."
“When promises are broken and trust is lost the relationship can’t continue. That’s where things are for me right now – and why change is in the best interests of everyone, not just myself.”
The 25-year-old added he was “proud” to be voted into the PFA team of the year, thanking his teammates and “everyone at Newcastle” for their support.
Newcastle responded swiftly with a firm statement, insisting no agreement was ever made allowing Isak to leave.
“We are disappointed to have been alerted to a social media post by Alexander Isak this evening,” the club said. “We are clear in response that Alex remains under contract and that no commitment has ever been made by a club official that Alex can leave Newcastle United this summer.
“We want to keep our best players, but we also understand players have their own wishes and we listen to their views. As explained to Alex and his representatives, we must always take into consideration the best interests of Newcastle United, the team and our supporters in all decisions and we have been clear that the conditions of a sale this summer have not transpired. We do not foresee those conditions being met."
“This is a proud football club with proud traditions and we strive to retain our family feel. Alex remains part of our family and will be welcomed back when he is ready to rejoin his teammates.”
Should Isak eventually feature again, his next match could ironically come against Liverpool at St James’ Park on Monday.
Featured Image Credit: Instagram / @alex_isak
