Alexander Isak’s situation at Liverpool has quickly become one of the most talked-about stories in English football, and for Newcastle United supporters it is a strange mix of frustration, curiosity, and quiet satisfaction.
Many Toon fans have found themselves watching Isak’s struggles from a distance, not out of bitterness alone, but because his difficulties offer some comfort during a tough spell for their own club in the Premier League.
What once looked like a dream move for the Swedish striker has instead turned into an uncomfortable chapter that raises real questions about his future.
Liverpool head coach Arne Slot recently reminded reporters that Isak was signed on a long-term, six-year deal only weeks ago, a comment clearly intended to calm any early talk of an exit.
On paper, that contract suggests patience and belief. In reality, football rarely follows the script. When expectations are sky-high and performances fall short, even the biggest deals can come under scrutiny very quickly.
That is where Dietmar Hamann’s comments have added fuel to the fire. The former midfielder, who knows both Newcastle and Liverpool well after playing for both clubs, has openly suggested that Isak’s time on Merseyside may not be as secure as many believe.
Despite the staggering £130 million fee paid to bring him in, Hamann has not ruled out a sale as early as next summer if things fail to improve.
Hamann’s view is simple and blunt. If Isak does not show a clear upturn in form by March or April, Liverpool may start serious discussions about moving him on.
He believes there would be no shortage of interest, pointing to Isak’s proven quality during his time at Newcastle as evidence that other top clubs would still see value in him.
Hamann also highlighted the growing importance of Hugo Ekitike’s form, suggesting that if the French forward continues to develop, Isak could find regular minutes hard to come by unless he accepts being pushed out wide.
The former Germany international also linked Isak’s future to Liverpool’s wider fortunes. If results dip and Champions League qualification is missed, the club may be forced to reassess big-name players who are not delivering.
In that scenario, Isak could find himself grouped with other high-profile signings whose futures suddenly look uncertain.
Isak, for his part, has tried to keep his focus narrow. When asked about last summer and the noise surrounding his move, he brushed it aside and insisted it is now firmly in the past.
He has spoken about staying in the moment and setting higher standards for himself, admitting that even when he performs well, he always wants more. There is confidence in his words, but also an edge that suggests he is acutely aware of the criticism coming his way.
He made it clear that he does not need outside voices to judge his performances. As a striker, he knows when he is delivering and when he is not.
His message was about staying positive, working harder, and trusting himself to turn things around. It was a calm response, but one that did little to silence speculation.
For Newcastle fans, the whole situation feels deeply ironic. Isak forced his way out in search of something bigger, only to find himself under even harsher pressure.
Whether Liverpool truly consider selling him remains to be seen, but the fact the conversation exists at all says everything about how quickly fortunes can change in modern football.
