Alexander Isak Named in Sweden Squad Amid Newcastle Transfer Uncertainty

SME News UK. Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak has been included in Sweden’s squad for their opening 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Slovenia and Kosovo, despite his ongoing absence from club action and mounting speculation over his future.The 25-year-old forward has missed Newcastle’s first two Premier League fixtures this season, with his situation dominated by reports linking him with a move to Liverpool. Isak’s international call-up may provide a welcome distraction as he prepares to lead the line for Janne Andersson’s side in Ljubljana on September 5 before travelling to Pristina to face Kosovo four days later.The striker recently issued a pointed statement on social media, suggesting that his relationship with Newcastle had reached breaking point.”The reality is that promises were made and the club has known my position for a long time. To now act as if these issues are only emerging is misleading,” Isak wrote. “When promises are broken and trust is lost, the relationship can’t continue. That’s where things are for me right now – and why change is in the best interests of everyone, not just myself.”Despite the public nature of the dispute, Newcastle manager Eddie Howe has reiterated his desire to reintegrate the striker.”Alex is an outstanding player, and he’s a good person, a good character. He wants to succeed in his career,” Howe said ahead of the Magpies’ goalless draw with Aston Villa. “This has been a difficult situation for him and the players to see us without him. But if Alex decided to come back and play for us, the players would welcome him.”Isak is set to miss Newcastle’s upcoming clash with Leeds United before linking up with the Sweden squad, where he will be joined by fellow Magpie Anthony Elanga. Sweden’s qualifying campaign begins with high hopes, as they aim to secure their place at next year’s finals in North America.