Alexander Isak and Anthony Elanga in action for Sweden.placeholder image
Alexander Isak and Anthony Elanga in action for Sweden. | Getty Images
Alexander Isak left Newcastle United in the same summer that countryman Anthony Elanga joined.
Anthony Elanga has played down suggestions of “turbulence” at Newcastle United during the Alexander Isak saga.
Isak went on strike at Newcastle this summer and got his desired outcome on transfer deadline day after joining Premier League champions Liverpool for a British record £130million.
Elanga became the Magpies’ first summer signing in July after arriving from Nottingham Forest for £55m and in his first full week at the club trained with fellow Sweden international Isak during the pre-season camp in Austria. But it all changed the following week.
Isak sat out of the club’s tour of Asia and instead travelled to Spain to train at former club Real Sociedad. The squad and Isak later returned to England but never reunited, with Isak opting to train alone in an attempt to force through a move to Anfield.
The 25-year-old’s refusal to play left Eddie Howe’s side without a recognised striker for the opening three matches of the new Premier League, all of which they failed to win with two goalless draws away to Aston Villa and Leeds United, and a late 3-2 defeat to Liverpool.
Anthony Elanga comments on Alexander Isak’s Newcastle United exit
Elanga, who is currently on international duty with Isak, is the third Newcastle player to comment on his exit after Anthony Gordon and Sven Botman both went public with their well-wishes.
Asked about the “turbulence” surrounding the Isak saga, Elanga told Fotbollskanalen: “It's been chill. He had a contract with us and right now he's with Liverpool. But we all think he's a very good player.
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“We've lost a good player but we've also signed good players. Hopefully we can look ahead and focus on this season.”
Elanga added: “It's his choice. He chose Liverpool. Best of luck. He is a friend of mine and a fantastic footballer. I get the opportunity to play with him in the national team and that is also good.
“He is a fantastic player and a very good person. Right now, he is a Liverpool player but I have the opportunity to play with him in the national team.”
What Alexander Isak has said about his Newcastle United exit
Isak was regarded as a hero at St James’ Park, with one of his 62 goals for the club helping them to end their 70-year trophy drought in March with a 2-1 victory over Liverpool in the Carabao Cup final in March. But his actions have tarnished his legacy and left a bitter taste in the mouth of the football club.
It was telling that, in Newcastle’s parting statement, they made no reference to Isak’s goals or achievements, and were in no mood to offer thank you or well wishes.
Isak, meanwhile, wrote: “I want to express my gratitude to my teammates, the staff, and above all, the city of Newcastle and all the amazing supporters for the three unforgettable years we shared together.
Together, we have written history and brought the club to the place where it truly belongs. It has been an honour to be part of the journey from reaching the Champions League to winning the first trophy in over 70 years. Forever grateful. Thank you, Newcastle.”
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