Overview

• Eddie Howe said the moment Alexander Isak went on strike was the turning point in their relationship, with communication becoming difficult thereafter.
• Isak trained away from the squad during the standoff after his camp asserted there was a summer exit agreement, before a deadline-day switch to Liverpool was completed.
• Liverpool signed the Sweden forward for a British‑record fee reported at about £130 million after Newcastle initially rejected lower offers.
• Newcastle reinvested in forwards Nick Woltemade and Yoane Wissa, with Howe confirming Wissa is sidelined until after the next international break and Woltemade is expected to start against Wolves.
• Liverpool boss Arne Slot signaled a gradual integration for Isak due to limited pre-season work, suggesting he could begin on the bench as he builds fitness.