The real reason why Alexander Isak is missing from Newcastle’s friendly with Celtic – journalist

Alexander Isak’s absence from Newcastle United’s pre-season clash with Celtic has sparked curiosity among fans, especially with ongoing transfer rumours linking the striker to Liverpool.

However, the true reason behind his omission is far less dramatic and more focused on his long-term fitness. The Swedish forward, who was instrumental last season despite carrying a persistent groin problem, continues to recover and is undergoing a carefully managed pre-season programme under the guidance of Eddie Howe and the medical team.

Although he did not join the team immediately for their Austrian training camp, he later linked up with the squad, arriving alongside Sandro Tonali, dispelling early fears of a potential transfer or fallout.

Newcastle remain firm in their stance regarding Isak, having turned down interest from Liverpool and making it clear he is a central figure in their 2025/26 campaign plans.

Newcastle’s first pre-season outing in front of fans brought optimism and excitement, particularly with the inclusion of new signing Anthony Elanga.

Despite the buzz, Isak’s name was notably missing from the matchday squad, fueling speculation. Supporters and pundits alike questioned whether the absence was tactical, medical, or a sign of things to come.

Yet Chris Waugh of The Athletic offered the most reassuring explanation: Newcastle are simply managing the striker’s minutes carefully.

There’s no indication of a major setback, but rather a cautious approach to ensure Isak is fully fit for what promises to be a demanding season both domestically and in Europe.

The decision to rest Isak comes amid an electric atmosphere, as 10,000 Geordie fans travelled to Glasgow to support the Magpies at Celtic Park, setting a new away fan attendance record at the iconic stadium.

While the inaugural Adidas Trophy might be friendly in name, it carries symbolic importance. It marks the start of a new era, one in which Newcastle aim to cement their status among Europe’s elite.

In this context, safeguarding key players like Isak becomes a strategic priority. His contribution to the team is not just measured in goals but in the tactical flexibility and dynamism he brings to Howe’s system.

Joining Isak on the sidelines is Joelinton, another player recovering from a challenging end to last season. The Brazilian powerhouse struggled with a knee injury, which ultimately ruled him out of Newcastle’s final three matches of the campaign.

Though he has returned to training, the coaching staff are choosing to gradually ease him back into action rather than rush his return for a pre-season fixture.

Joelinton himself acknowledged in an earlier interview that managing the injury has not been easy, though he remains focused and committed to regaining full fitness. His absence, like Isak’s, is a calculated move rather than a cause for concern.

Lewis Hall also did not feature, although that was widely expected as he continues his rehabilitation from a season-ending injury.

Matt Targett stepped into the void, offering Howe an opportunity to test depth and give squad players valuable minutes on the pitch. In a pre-season setting, the emphasis lies as much in preparation as in performance.

The coaching staff’s approach to player conditioning reflects the heightened demands of a season that includes Premier League, Champions League, and domestic cup responsibilities.

Despite a few key absences, the match against Celtic offered Eddie Howe a first glimpse at how his team is shaping up.

The inclusion of Elanga added freshness and pace to the side, while fans were also treated to a glimpse of tactical adjustments and positional rotations aimed at making the Magpies more unpredictable and efficient.

While supporters might have hoped to see Isak and Joelinton lead the line, their absence underscores Newcastle’s broader ambitions — to compete consistently at the highest level, players must be preserved and protected during critical preparation phases.

As speculation continues around high-profile names and potential transfers, Newcastle’s measured handling of Isak’s situation sends a clear message.

The club is not entertaining reckless decisions or short-term fixes. Instead, there’s a focus on sustainability, smart planning, and making sure every player enters the season with the best possible foundation.

For Isak, his exclusion from this friendly may seem minor, but it’s likely to pay dividends once the real campaign begins.