Alexander Isak Included in Sweden’s Squad for World Cup Qualifiers Amid Transfer Stand-off

Stockholm, 27 August 2025 — Alexander Isak, Sweden’s prolific striker, finds himself in a complex tug-of-war between club pressures and national pride as the new season approaches.

Club Impasse at Newcastle United

Isak remains at the centre of a high-profile transfer saga at Newcastle United. Unwilling to train or play, he continues to push for a move to Liverpool, following the club’s rejection of a sizeable bid earlier this summer. In an attempt to persuade him to stay, representatives from Newcastle—including members of the Public Investment Fund and co-owner Jamie Reuben—visited his home to present a contract extension, but Isak remained steadfast in his desire to leave.

With Callum Wilson having departed and no replacement found, Newcastle has become increasingly short-handed up front. Attempts to sign other strikers—such as Jørgen Strand Larsen and Yoane Wissa—have been rebuffed, leaving manager Eddie Howe scrambling to fill the void.

Sweden Call-up Despite Club Standstill

In the midst of this unprecedented club episode, Sweden head coach Jon Dahl Tomasson has opted to call Isak into the national squad for Sweden’s upcoming World Cup qualifiers. Despite having not played a competitive minute for Newcastle, Isak is expected to feature in fixtures against Slovenia (5 September) and Kosovo (8 September)—potentially making his first appearance of the 2025/26 season at international level.

A Tale of Two Fronts

• At Newcastle: Isak continues his self-imposed exile from the first-team squad as tensions mount and the transfer window ticks toward its deadline.
• With Sweden: His inclusion in the national team signals trust in his abilities and underscores the importance of having a player of his calibre leading the frontline.