Eddie Howe Keeps Door Open for Isak Amid Liverpool Links

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has reiterated that striker Alexander Isak still has a place in his squad despite ongoing speculation about the player’s future.

Isak was left out of Newcastle’s goalless draw against Aston Villa at Villa Park on Saturday, with reports suggesting the 25-year-old forward is keen on a move to Liverpool. His absence was telling, as the Magpies wasted several clear chances in the first half.

Speaking after the match, Howe stressed the importance of clarity while keeping the possibility of reintegration open.

“Nothing has changed. The door is well and truly open. He has to decide what he wants to do,” Howe said.

“We would like a resolution. We need that clarity. You don’t need any kind of distraction. I am not in control of that. There is one person who can control that. Let’s wait and see. I have made my stance clear. I am concentrating on the team.”

Opinion:
Eddie Howe’s words strike a delicate balance between loyalty to Newcastle and respect for Isak’s ambitions. On one hand, losing Isak — a striker with pace, power, and clinical finishing — would be a massive blow to Newcastle’s project, especially after their struggles in front of goal against Aston Villa. On the other, the lure of Liverpool is hard to resist for any player chasing silverware and global recognition.

What stands out here is Howe’s calm but firm stance: the door is open, but the distraction isn’t welcome. This is the kind of leadership that can steady a dressing room in turbulent times. Still, the big question lingers — should Newcastle fight tooth and nail to keep Isak, or cash in and rebuild with a striker who fully commits to the black-and-white shirt?

Either way, clarity must come soon — because as Saturday’s match showed, Newcastle cannot afford uncertainty in attack if they are to compete at the very top.