Eddie Howe should ensure Newcastle ‘aren’t held hostage’ after Alexander Isak’s statement

Eddie Howe must handle a very delicate situation unravelling at Newcastle after Alexander Isak and the club exchanged furious public statements aimed at one another

Eddie Howe finds himself in an almost impossible position to put a lid on the Alexander Isak saga.

On Tuesday night, Isak’s desire to leave Newcastle reached a crucial moment after the 25-year-old slammed the club on social media. Isak was named in the PFA Premier League Team of the Season for the 2024/25 campaign, but he did not attend the ceremony.

Taking to his social media channels, Isak stated he did not attend the awards ceremony due to the ongoing situation surrounding his future before he firmly pointed the finger at Newcastle.

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.”

Isak didn’t feature for Newcastle in their opening Premier League game against Aston Villa, and he wasn’t seen appearing for the Magpies the entire pre-season after missing the tour in Asia.

Newcastle hit back at Isak’s public criticism, saying: “We are disappointed to have been alerted to a social media post by Alexander Isak this evening.

“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.”

Asking ChatGPT about how Howe should handle the Isak situation after the saga soured, AI replied:

“Eddie Howe should respond to Alexander Isak’s statement with calm authority, reaffirming his desire for a swift resolution. He’s previously emphasised the importance of clarity for the team and should continue to stress that point.

“While leaving the door open for Isak’s return, Howe must insist it depends on the player acting professionally and respectfully. His messaging should remain firm but supportive, showing empathy without compromising the club’s values.

“Howe has said he still wants Isak in a Newcastle shirt, but he’s also made it clear that the team must move on if necessary. His focus should now shift to those committed and available, maintaining unity within the squad. A composed, principled response will preserve Howe’s leadership credibility while protecting Newcastle’s long-term interests.

“Ultimately, it’s about restoring stability and ensuring the club isn’t held hostage by one player’s discontent, no matter how talented he is.”