Alexander Isak explains why Liverpool move from Newcastle was an easy decision

Alexander Isak says Liverpool’s stature, ambition and determination to sign him made leaving Newcastle United an easy decision.

The Sweden striker joined Liverpool from Newcastle on the final day of the September 2025 transfer window in a deal worth £125m, making it the most expensive transfer in British history.

“Liverpool is a huge club, and everything about the club made the decision very clear,” Isak told BBC Sport’s The Football Interview. “The club’s ambition and its desire to sign me were a big part of my decision.”

Isak missed pre-season last year as uncertainty surrounded his future at Newcastle. During that period, he trained with former club Real Sociedad and had previously said that some promises made to him at Newcastle had not been fulfilled.

His first season at Liverpool was also disrupted. The 26-year-old found it difficult to score regularly before suffering a broken leg that kept him out from December to April.

Despite those setbacks, Isak insists he has no regrets about moving to Anfield.

“No, never. I have never thought about it that way,” he said.

“A broken leg was difficult, and anyone who has suffered a long-term injury knows how hard it is. But when you are in a good place and feel well, you do not tend to look back because it will not help you.

“I am looking forward and I feel very optimistic and excited about this season.”

Isak made his first World Cup appearance for Sweden during the summer after playing 22 matches for Liverpool last season, totalling only 1,032 minutes. He scored one goal and provided three assists for his country before Sweden were eliminated by France in the last 32.

He said the tournament had arrived at an ideal time after his injury problems.

“Playing for your country at a World Cup is a dream for most people,” Isak said. “After the injuries I had last season, the tournament gave me the opportunity to play, regain my match rhythm and recover my form.”

The forward has also outlined the demands placed on him by new Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola, who succeeded Arne Slot. Isak says he is expected to contribute to the team’s defensive work from the front as part of the club’s attacking system.

“The manager asks me to defend, but in positions that allow us, when we win the ball back, to launch quick counter-attacks and move it into the front line,” he said.

“He wants me to score goals, but he also wants me to defend.”

Isak said Iraola’s approach is based on intensity, high pressing and direct football, adding that the style could help both him and Liverpool score more goals.

He has scored 60 goals in the Premier League, with his best return coming in 2024-2025 when he netted 23 times for Newcastle.

Although he wants to help Liverpool win trophies, Isak does not set himself a specific target for goals.

“Everyone knows that success at this club means winning trophies,” he said. “I want to score in every match, but I am the type of person who does not set personal targets.”