Newcastle United vs. Liverpool: Isak’s Influence and Match Preview

While Alexander Isak might not feature on the pitch at St. James` Park this Monday, his presence looms large over the highly anticipated Premier League clash between Newcastle United and Liverpool, influencing discussions in more ways than one.

The Swedish international is currently at the center of a dramatic transfer standoff with Newcastle, a saga that has dominated the transfer window as its closing date approaches. Isak`s situation has seen all the hallmarks of a contentious transfer, from training individually and reportedly listing his English home for rent to a public statement on Instagram about unfulfilled promises, which garnered a swift response from Newcastle. Interestingly, Isak has been linked with Liverpool, a club that previously considered him for their revamped attack, though the likelihood of a deal materializing or a resolution being reached remains uncertain.

This adds an extra layer of intrigue to what is already a fascinating fixture, concluding the second weekend of Premier League action and prompting the question: How would the dynamics of these teams shift with Isak on board?

Newcastle United`s Perspective

From Newcastle`s viewpoint, the answer to the Isak question is straightforward. His proven goal-scoring ability for the Magpies – 62 goals in 109 appearances – made him a multi-million-dollar asset, and his absence was keenly felt in their opening weekend draw against Aston Villa. Despite playing with a man advantage for nearly half an hour, Newcastle managed only three shots on target out of sixteen attempts. Anthony Gordon stepped up as the makeshift frontman, taking seven shots and generating 0.55 expected goals, but it was clear the naturally gifted winger wasn`t ideally suited for Isak`s central role.

The Magpies are actively seeking a replacement for Isak, but a suitable successor has yet to emerge, despite continuous rumors surrounding various players. Manager Eddie Howe may, for now, have to rely on a lineup similar to the one that faced Villa, featuring Harvey Barnes and new signing Anthony Elanga on the flanks.

Liverpool`s Perspective

For Liverpool, the question of Isak is almost one of luxury. The Reds` strong preseason performances and their impressive 4-2 victory against Bournemouth last Friday demonstrated that their attack is thriving even without him. New talents Florian Wirtz and Hugo Ekitike are integrating seamlessly, while Mohamed Salah is expected to remain a pivotal figure for at least another season. However, adding Isak to the squad certainly wouldn`t be detrimental and could be a strategic move if manager Arne Slot`s side struggles to find optimal squad balance before the transfer window closes on September 1.

Defensive Vulnerabilities

Despite Liverpool`s prolific scoring, their defense shows clear vulnerabilities, having conceded two goals in both the Community Shield and the recent Bournemouth match. Their regular back four – Jeremie Frimpong, Ibrahima Konate, Virgil van Dijk, and Milos Kerkez – appear susceptible, and defensive reinforcements are yet to arrive. While they did sign 18-year-old Giovanni Leoni from Parma, he is unlikely to immediately slot into the first team. Links to Crystal Palace`s Marc Guehi persist, but a deal has not been finalized. Although they might feel confident facing a less-than-perfect Newcastle attack, Liverpool only managed one clean sheet in preseason, and that was against Championship side Stoke City.