Newcastle United forward Alexander Isak has been handed an international call-up by Sweden despite uncertainty over his club future, with the striker preparing for his first match in three months.
Isak, who has Eritrean roots but represents Sweden at senior level, has been absent from Newcastle’s pre-season fixtures and missed their opening Premier League clashes against Aston Villa and Liverpool, where the Magpies managed just one point.
His absence comes amid growing speculation over a transfer, with the 25-year-old determined to leave St. James’ Park despite the intervention of club chairman Yasir Al-Rumayyan, who visited him at home on Monday.
Sweden boss Jon Dahl Tomasson confirmed the striker’s inclusion in his squad for the opening 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Slovenia and Kosovo.
Asked about the saga, Tomasson refrained from making strong judgements, stressing that Isak is capable of handling his own affairs.
“It is very difficult to have a clear opinion about the situation. We do not know what has happened in the club. We must be very careful about drawing hasty conclusions when we do not have the whole picture. He is smart enough, he is smarter than me I think,” he said.
The Swedish coach admitted, however, that the forward’s lack of competitive action will limit his involvement.
“Alex is a very professional player, a strong character, and he has worked hard. He is a game changer. I have spoken to him several times; mentally, he is strong. Can he play 90 minutes? Of course not. Not at all,” Tomasson added.
Meanwhile, Liverpool have yet to return with a new offer after seeing an initial £110 million bid rejected earlier this month.
With only days left in the summer transfer window, Newcastle appear poised to keep their prized striker unless The Reds launch a dramatic late move.
