Andoni Iraola has backed Alexander Isak to hit the ground running this season, but Isak won't be coming up against Eddie Howe at Newcastle on the opening day
Alexander Isak has avoided meeting Eddie Howe in the 2026/27 season after his Newcastle United exit
Alexander Isak has avoided meeting Eddie Howe in the 2026/27 season after his Newcastle United exit(Image: (Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images))
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Alexander Isak will avoid an awkward Eddie Howe reunion in the Premier League for the upcoming season after he chose to depart Newcastle United. The Swedish striker made a £125million switch from the latter to Liverpool last summer but did not face his former club during his debut campaign at Anfield.
Fitness issues and a serious leg injury limited Isak to just over 1,000 minutes last season, during which he managed only four goals and one assist. He was still contracted to Newcastle for the August 2025 clash at St James' Park and he missed the reverse fixture with a broken fibula.
The Reds did the double over Isak's old club with the 26-year-old in attendance for the 4-1 win at Anfield in January. He was spotted behind the Liverpool dugout and smiled when Hugo Ekitike grabbed a quickfire brace just in case there was any doubt over his allegiances.
A few months earlier Isak penned a heartfelt message to Newcastle on his Instagram page. "I want to express my gratitude to my team-mates, the staff, and above all, the city of Newcastle and all the amazing supporters for the three unforgettable years we shared together," he wrote.
"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."
Upon signing for Liverpool, when asked why he joined, Isak said: "I want to create history. I want to win trophies... I want to win everything [in Liverpool]."
Alexander Isak of Liverpool reacts
Liverpool need Alexander Isak to step up next season
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The Reds failed to claim any silverware last season and pressure will likely be on Isak to deliver now that Mohamed Salah has departed. Ekitike also won't be available for a number of months as he continues to recover from an Achilles injury.
That also likely means Isak starts up front against his old club on the opening weekend of the 2026/27 season, where he will almost certainly receive a hostile reception. Victor Munoz could also face an unpleasant welcome if he plays after opting for a move to Liverpool despite Newcastle agreeing a fee with Osasuna.
He is the only permanent signing made under Andoni Iraola with the deal for Jeremy Jacquet agreed back in February.