Anthony Gordon of Newcastle United celebrates scoring his team's third goal with teammate Alexander Isak during the Premier League match between Newcastle United FC and Wolverhampton Wanderers FC at St James' Park on January 15, 2025 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)placeholder image
Anthony Gordon of Newcastle United celebrates scoring his team's third goal with teammate Alexander Isak during the Premier League match between Newcastle United FC and Wolverhampton Wanderers FC at St James' Park on January 15, 2025 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Alexander Isak forced his way out of Newcastle United to join Liverpool.
Isak went on a strike at Newcastle United this summer and ultimately got what he wanted by joining the Reds on deadline day for a British record £130million. But at what cost?
Isak had been regarded as a legend at Newcastle, having scored the winning goal against Liverpool in the Carabao Cup final in March to help end the club’s 70-year domestic trophy drought. His goals also helped the Magpies qualify for the Champions League twice in three seasons.
Newcastle United make their feelings clear on Alexander Isak
However, the Swede’s conduct throughout the saga has tarnished his legacy and brought a very ill feeling towards him, as highlighted by the Magpies’ official statement that confirmed his move to Anfield.
“Newcastle United can announce the sale of striker Alexander Isak to Liverpool for a significant British record transfer fee,” it read. The Sweden international joined the Magpies from Real Sociedad in 2022 and made 109 appearances in all competitions.”
Tellingly, there was no mention of his achievements, his goals and no thank you or well wishes.
Sven Botman and Anthony Gordon send messages to Alexander Isak
But that hasn’t prevented some of Isak’s now former teammates from publicly wishing him well. Sven Botman went first with his message, leading to criticism from sections of the fanbase on social media.
Now Anthony Gordon faces a similar wrath from supporters after he too sent a message to Isak.
Gordon wrote on Instagram: “Regardless of the situation & what’s gone on, it’s been a pleasure to play with you. One of the best chemistries I’ve had on the pitch and more importantly a great person and teammate.
“I wish you nothing but the best brother.”
Anthony Gordon sympathises with Alexander Isak
Gordon’s message perhaps shouldn't come as a great surprise after the England winger voiced his sympathy for Isak back in July.
The 24-year-old said he understood how Isak was feeling having come close to joining Liverpool himself last summer.
Speaking to Mail Sport, Gordon said: “I understand what Alex is going through. What I can say, for me, is that it’s been an absolute pleasure to be out of the transfer speculation for a summer! It’s the first time in about three years! It’s been so easy, so mentally refreshing.”
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“It’s true, that was the case,” Gordon replied when asked if club staff had to work hard to get him ‘back in the building’. “I would never lie. It was difficult for me because one, I had the Euros, which was horrendous for me mentally. I was there, I wasn’t playing.
“Then I had the transfer stuff. With PSR, I thought I was going to leave at some point in the window. It didn’t happen. I had to get my head around that to begin with (thinking he was going), and then to get my head around it again (when it didn’t happen) was hard.
“I’m a human being. It’s really difficult. That is why I understand what Alex is going through. I feel for him. He will be going through a lot. The club is going through a lot. I hope everyone gets what they want in the end.”
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