Alexander Isak has firmly established himself as one of the most electrifying players in world football, a meteoric rise that has silenced doubters and enthralled fans.
Yet, not long ago, Thomas Tuchel saw him during his tenure at Borussia Dortmund in 2017, an error that now looks glaring in hindsight. At 25 years old, Isak is not just the best striker in the Premier League but is staking a claim as the finest in the world on current form.
Newcastle United’s acquisition of Isak from Real Sociedad in the summer of 2022 was a transformative moment for the club. For a record £63 million, they secured a striker whose potential was evident, but few could have anticipated the rapid ascent he has made. The Magpies’ dilemma now is how to retain their star amid interest from Arsenal and Isak’s own ambitions for greater accolades. Such aspirations are natural for a player of his caliber, but they pose questions about Newcastle’s ability to compete at the highest level.
Isak’s recent form has been nothing short of sensational. Seven goals in his last five Premier League matches have propelled Newcastle from 12th to fifth in the table. His contributions have transformed what was a mid-table side into genuine contenders for European football. Should they secure Champions League qualification, the allure of leaving may diminish, as Isak would already be playing on one of football’s grandest stages.
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Eddie Howe’s Role and Alexander Isak Performances
Eddie Howe, Newcastle’s head coach, has played a pivotal role in Isak’s development. Howe’s public challenge to Isak in October—following a stretch of just one goal in seven games—was a masterstroke. “If a player is saying he has huge ambitions, he has to be doing the business on the pitch,” Howe declared. Isak’s response? Eleven goals in twelve games, a run of form that has reaffirmed his status as one of the Premier League’s elite talents.
Despite his extraordinary performances, Newcastle’s top brass have been measured in their approach to contract discussions. Isak’s deal runs until 2028, and he’s already the club’s highest earner. While a bumper pay rise could sweeten the pot, Newcastle’s leadership is mindful of sustainability and the reality of Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR). Still, offers exceeding the British record fee of £106.8 million—paid by Chelsea for Enzo Fernandez—could test their resolve.
Off the pitch, Isak is as composed as he is on it. Howe’s admiration for the Swede is clear. “When I saw him, I was instantly taken with his game. He doesn’t get overly emotional, which is a great quality for a striker. That calmness in front of goal is part of his personality.” It’s a rare combination of traits that make Isak so invaluable: technical brilliance, mental fortitude, and a relentless drive to improve.
Comparisons to legendary forwards have been inevitable. Thierry Henry’s name often comes up, and while Isak’s style shares some similarities with the French icon, his elasticity, ball control, and creativity are unique. His ability to glide past defenders with a combination of pace, power, and precision is unparalleled. A clip of him dribbling through Everton’s defense, viewed over 5.4 million times on YouTube, epitomizes his brilliance.
The Journey of Alexander Isak
Born in Solna, Sweden, to Eritrean parents, Isak’s journey to the top has been defined by resilience and talent. His early days at AIK Solna showcased a precocious talent that quickly drew comparisons to Zlatan Ibrahimovic, a label he has consistently shrugged off. “He’s always been his own man,” say those who watched him develop, a sentiment that has only been reinforced by his unique playing style.
A misstep in his career came when he joined Borussia Dortmund for £8 million, a move overshadowed by internal politics at the club. Despite showing flashes of his potential during a loan spell at Willem II, his time in Germany was largely forgettable. Real Sociedad, however, recognized his talent and snapped him up for the same fee. There, Isak flourished, becoming one of La Liga’s most dangerous forwards.
Newcastle’s scouting department left no stone unturned before committing to the transfer. Howe, in particular, knows Isak’s ability to create and finish chances, often single-handedly. “His game has everything,” Howe said. “It’s my job to push him to new heights and never let him settle.”
Newcastle Under Saudi Ownership
As Newcastle’s project under Saudi ownership gathers momentum, keeping hold of Alexander Isak will be a litmus test of their ambitions. Howe’s proven track record of developing players adds weight to the argument that St James’ Park is the perfect place for Isak to reach his peak. The 42 goals he’s scored in just 60 Premier League starts—numbers comparable to Newcastle legend Alan Shearer—are a testament to his extraordinary ability.
Still, the specter of a big-money move looms. Isak’s unique blend of attributes—his “liquid-limbed” agility, sprinter’s pace, and heavyweight strength—make him a target for Europe’s biggest clubs. Furthermore, Newcastle must weigh the potential windfall of a record-breaking transfer against the value of retaining a player capable of defining their future.
Finally, as he enters his prime years, Isak’s trajectory suggests he could dominate the global stage. For Newcastle, the challenge is to match his ambitions and build a team that can compete with the very best. Whether they can do so remains to be seen, but for now, Alexander Isak is the jewel in their crown—and perhaps the most coveted striker in football.