Eddie Howe Bournemouth
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Newcastle United’s pre-season preparations have taken a dramatic turn as manager Eddie Howe revealed that the future of key striker Alexander Isak is now in the hands of the club’s hierarchy. With PIF officials observed in the directors’ box, the situation surrounding Isak appears to be reaching a decisive moment. Howe candidly admitted his inability to prevent the striker’s potential exit, adding another layer of complexity to the club’s pre-season challenges.
Eddie Howe said: “Again, it is a decision that I won’t make, that will be for other people to make. For me, I am just trying to manage the situation. And manage the team most importantly, manage the group of players I am working with day to day. I love coaching and helping, we are focused on Aston Villa. Everything else, from my perspective, is not in my control, so it is not my focus.”
The Newcastle manager also addressed the possibility of persuading Isak to remain with the team, particularly for their upcoming match against Aston Villa. However, Howe indicated that his efforts might be better directed elsewhere.
Howe continued: “If that it was that easy, I would be doing it and I’d have done it yesterday. I think I am better off focusing on the players. I think I said enough last night I don’t really want to go there because I don’t think it is fair on either party. I did say I want him training and playing for us. So I think by that you can see my want and wish. But for both sides, it has to be right.”
Despite the uncertainty surrounding Isak, Howe remains hopeful about the player’s potential involvement with the team.
He added: “I think everything is still in play, he is contracted to us, he is our player. The club basically make the decision on his future. I don’t know what that will be. I want the players that really want to play for this football club.”
In addition to the Isak situation, Newcastle faced a challenging day with a defeat to Atletico Madrid and an injury to Anthony Gordon. However, Howe provided some positive news regarding Gordon’s condition.
Howe stated: “It’s an ankle problem. It looks like it’s just a twist, so hopefully he is OK. Fingers crossed.”
As Newcastle United prepares for the 2025/26 Premier League season, the club’s management and fans eagerly await the resolution of Isak’s future. The pre-season period has been fraught with challenges, but the focus remains on building a competitive squad ready to face the upcoming campaign.
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