Refusing to play or train can often help a wantaway footballer force through a transfer – but it doesn’t always work out that way…
Newcastle ace Alexander Isak trying to force through a move to Liverpool has unquestionably been the story of the 2025 summer transfer window, and it’s still unclear whether the forward will be at St. James’ Park, Anfield or still sitting at home when the transfer window closes on September 1.
The Swede refused to go on the Magpies’ pre-season tour of Asia, preferring instead to train alone in San Sebastian, while he played no part in his team’s Premier League opener against Aston Villa last weekend. He also upped the ante on Monday by accusing his employers of breaking promises and arguing that a parting of the ways is now the best – and only – option for everyone involved.
Newcastle, though, have shown little sign of softening their stance that Isak is not for sale – particularly as they’ve already failed to sign so many potential replacements. But, as GOAL outlines below, when it comes to players going on strike, one can never be quite sure how things are going to pan out…
