Eddie Howe confirms Alexander Isak to continue training away from squad - ‘Clear I can’t involve him’
Published 09/08/2025 at 08:07 GMT+1
Eddie Howe has given an update on the situation regarding Newcastle United star striker Alexander Isak. Following a 2-2 draw with Espanyol in the club's penultimate pre-season friendly before the new Premier League campaign kicks off, the Magpies boss confirmed that Isak will continue to train away from the squad while speculation about his future at the club persists.
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Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe says striker Alexander Isak will continue to train away from the rest of the squad, despite the new Premier League season being less than a week away.
The Magpies begin their campaign away to Aston Villa on Saturday, August 16, live on TNT Sports and discovery+, and seem likely to be without their star striker.
Isak, whose future has been the subject of intense speculation this summer, asked if he could explore his options during the transfer window.
Newcastle rejected a £110 million bid from Liverpool for the 25-year-old, who bagged 27 goals in 42 appearances in all competitions last season.
Isak was not part of Newcastle’s pre-season tour to Asia and also missed Friday’s 2-2 draw with Espanyol at St James’ Park, the Magpies’ penultimate game before their Premier League opener.
"We've had discussions and it's clear at the moment we can't have him involved with the group," Howe said, when asked about the situation after the draw with Espanyol.
"I don't know how long that will be for. It's clear I can't involve him with the team at the moment.
"He is training later than the rest of the squad. There have been discussions since the tour. I don't think disciplinary action has happened."
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Isak spent time training at his former club Real Sociedad on his own this summer but is now back in Newcastle.
Howe is adamant he does still have a future with the Tyneside club, but hinted his presence is more of a distraction than anything at the moment.
"He is here, so of course he has a future at Newcastle," Howe added. "From our perspective, we would love to have him back with the team, but the situation has to be right for that to happen.
"He doesn't have a fitness issue. I'm aware of a feeling within the squad that there's something there not to the benefit of the group."
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