Alexander Isak has brought the curtain down on his time at Newcastle United with a heartfelt message to the club’s fans following his record-breaking move to Liverpool.
The Sweden international striker joined the Merseyside giants on deadline day in a dramatic £125 million transfer, making him the most expensive signing in British football history. His departure ends a three-year spell at St James’ Park, one that saw both triumph and controversy.
From Hero to Record Sale
Isak arrived at Newcastle in 2022 from Real Sociedad for £60 million, a club record at the time. His impact was immediate. Combining pace, technical skill, and clinical finishing, he quickly became a talismanic figure for Eddie Howe’s side.
Last season, he scored 27 goals in 42 appearances across all competitions, firing Newcastle to Champions League qualification and helping deliver the club’s first domestic trophy in 70 years when they won the Carabao Cup in March.
It was Isak who scored the decisive goal in the final against Liverpool at Wembley, a moment that cemented his status as a fan favourite. However, just months later, the same club would come calling with an offer Newcastle ultimately could not refuse.
A Summer of Tension
The move to Liverpool followed one of the most drawn-out transfer sagas in recent memory. Newcastle initially resisted overtures for their prized asset, with the board insisting no promises had been made about a summer exit.
Isak, however, was determined to leave. Omitted from the club’s pre-season tour of Asia with what was officially described as a minor thigh problem, he trained separately at former club Sociedad amid speculation about his future.
Frustration bubbled to the surface in July when Isak released a statement claiming “promises had been broken” and that the relationship between him and Newcastle “couldn’t continue.” The words cut deep among supporters and fuelled rumours that an agreement had previously existed regarding a potential transfer.
Liverpool’s initial bid was rejected, but persistence paid off. With Isak refusing to play in Newcastle’s opening three league games — including a 3-2 defeat at home to Liverpool — negotiations resumed. On Monday, the deal was finally struck, with Jurgen Klopp’s side smashing the British transfer record to secure his signature.
Isak’s Farewell
While Newcastle marked the exit with a terse 37-word statement, Isak opted for a more emotional goodbye. Taking to Instagram, he thanked teammates, staff, and most of all, the fans.
“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,” the 25-year-old 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.”
The message struck a softer tone than the public statements earlier in the summer, though many supporters remain disappointed by both the timing and manner of his exit.
A New Chapter at Anfield
For Liverpool, the signing of Isak is seen as a statement of intent. Klopp has long admired the Swede’s movement and versatility, and the club hopes his arrival will fuel their push for the Premier League title and Champions League success.
The transfer caps what many view as Liverpool’s most ambitious window in years, with Isak the centrepiece of a squad overhaul designed to cement their place among Europe’s elite.
For Newcastle, the sale represents both a financial windfall and a sporting setback. Replacing Isak’s goals and influence will not be straightforward, and the manner of his departure leaves a sour taste at St James’ Park.
Yet for Isak himself, the message was clear: gratitude for the past, but eyes fixed firmly on the future at Anfield.
