Joelinton seemingly thinks Newcastle United fans "deserve better" amid the transfer saga involving wantaway Alexander Isak and Liverpool.
When Isak netted in a 2-1 win over Liverpool in the Carabao Cup final in February, it seemed implausible the Swede would ever be vilified by the Toon. But he is now public enemy number one at St James' Park after downing tools and refusing to play for the Magpies as he pushes for a move to Anfield.
Newcastle rejected a £110m bid from Arne Slot's Merseysiders earlier this summer, standing firm on their £150m valuation. But the relationship between club and player has become volatile, especially after their Swedish striker dropped a statement claiming promises had been "broken".
Joelinton Likes Post Taking Aim At Newcastle Teammate Isak
Newcastle United midfielder Joelinton
Isak took to Instagram on the same night he was named in the PFA Team of the Year to explain his absence from the awards ceremony. He wrote in a lengthy statement that "the relationship can't continue" and that "change is in the best interests of everyone, not just myself".
The 25-year-old wasn't the only one making their feelings known on social media, as Joelinton gave fans a glimpse of how his Swedish teammate's antics have gone down. The Brazilian midfielder liked a post that criticised the frontman:
"Idolised and adored. No promises broken by the fans that make this club. We deserve better than the destructive path you’ve chosen. Newcastle United will never be defeated."
Joelinton has become a fan favourite on Tyneside, putting in hard work to be a success under Eddie Howe. He was a standout performer alongside Isak in the Carabao Cup final triumph, penning a new long-term deal the next month, but his opinion isn't fully shared within the Magpies' dressing room.
There is reportedly a "divide down the middle when it comes to their star striker", per Mail Sport, which indicates that some sympathise with the former Real Sociedad man. Club captain Bruno Guimaraes looked to galvanise the club amid the turmoil that has ensued by posting a snap of himself wearing the black and white kit on his Instagram story.
"He's a Great Lad" - Joelinton Had Hoped Isak Would Make U-Turn
White Black Modern Photo Collage Before After Youtube Thumbnail - 2025-08-20T184655.675
Joelinton looked to play down talk of Isak leaving at the start of pre-season before Liverpool made their £110m offer at the start of August. The 29-year-old called him one of the best in the world (via Newcastle World):
"I hope not (Isak leaves). We have one of the best centre-forwards in the world. He’s a great lad, we love him. We can wait for him to come back to the team and play with us."
Joelinton joined Newcastle in the summer of 2019 and encountered issues stemming from a lack of form before undergoing a positional transformation under Howe. He opted to stay put when speculation over his future grew and became a crucial member of the Tyneside outfit's midfield.
The Brazil international appeared in the Magpies' season-opening 0-0 draw with Aston Villa last Saturday (August 16) while Isak sat it out due to his refusal to play for the club again. There's little to no chance the Swede will be back in action or even in attendance for his side's next game, which coincidentally comes at home against Liverpool on Monday night (August 25).