Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe is desperate to keep Alexander Isak, who he has described as a “world-class” talent, at the club. The 25-year-old striker recently scored his first Premier League hat-trick during a 4-0 victory over Ipswich Town, and Howe’s comments reflect just how highly the club rates the Swedish forward. With the January transfer window opening, there are concerns that Newcastle might face a fight to retain Isak, but the manager remains committed to ensuring that the player stays at St. James’ Park long term.
Alexander Isak Premier League Hat-Trick: A Long-Awaited Milestone
It may have taken longer than Isak, Howe, and Newcastle fans would have hoped, but the Swedish international finally has his first Premier League hat-trick to his name. The historic moment arrived during Newcastle’s commanding 4-0 win over Ipswich Town, with Isak playing a pivotal role in the team’s dominant display.
The match marked a significant achievement for Isak, who now has 10 Premier League goals this season. He is just three goals behind Mohamed Salah of Liverpool and Erling Haaland of Manchester City, two of the league’s most prolific scorers. This latest hat-trick brought his total to 41 Premier League goals in just 67 appearances for the Magpies since his record-breaking £63 million transfer from Real Sociedad in August 2022.
For Isak, the wait for this moment had been long, but it was clear from his performance that the hat-trick was well worth it. He was clinical throughout the game, taking his chances with calm precision, and Howe’s words after the match highlighted just how important he is to Newcastle’s future.
“It’s been a long time coming for Newcastle, my first one here,” Isak said following the game. “I’m buzzing. Scoring goals will give confidence and help me and the team. It doesn’t matter if it’s one, two, or three.”
Isak’s hat-trick was also a significant milestone in Premier League history, as he became the second Swedish player to score a Premier League hat-trick. The first was Freddie Ljungberg, who achieved the feat for Arsenal against Sunderland in 2003. Isak’s achievement is a testament to his growing stature in English football, and it certainly did not go unnoticed.
Howe’s Praise for Alexander Isak: A ‘World-Class’ Talent
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe could hardly hide his admiration for his star striker after the game. Reflecting on Isak’s performance, Howe described the Swedish forward as “a world-class talent,” praising his composure, technique, and maturity on the ball.
“I’m surprised it has taken him this long to get a hat-trick with his talent, but I’m pleased,” Howe admitted. “His first hat-trick for Newcastle is a great moment and we take pride in our players playing well.”
Isak’s first goal in the game came within just 26 seconds, when he slotted home a loose ball after Jacob Murphy’s cross was not properly cleared by Ipswich defenders. His quick response to the situation demonstrated his alertness and instincts, qualities that Howe and the Newcastle fans have come to rely on.
In addition to his quick opening goal, Isak was also gifted his second by Ipswich goalkeeper Arijanet Muric, whose misplaced pass to Jens Cajuste was intercepted by Bruno Guimarães. Isak had no trouble converting, giving Newcastle a comfortable 3-0 lead before half-time. His third goal, a clinical near-post finish after another Murphy assist, completed his hat-trick in style.
“Alex is a world-class talent,” Howe continued, “The way he took his goals, he has that coolness and composure very few have. When you add into the mix his technical skills, I think he’s got it all.”
Howe’s analysis of Isak is telling—he believes the forward possesses not only the physical and technical abilities required to thrive at the top level but also the mental qualities that set him apart. Isak’s calmness in front of goal and his knack for being in the right place at the right time make him a truly special player for Newcastle.
Alexander Isak Premier League Hat-Trick: A Key Moment in His Career
Isak’s hat-trick is more than just a personal milestone; it is a crucial moment in his development as a player. It highlights just how far he has come since joining Newcastle from Real Sociedad, where he initially struggled to find his feet in the Premier League. His performances have steadily improved since then, and he is now reaping the rewards of his hard work and determination.
Howe acknowledged that Isak’s recent form is a reflection of both the player’s progress and the improvements in Newcastle’s overall performance. “Earlier in the season, we weren’t doing that, but now the team are performing much better,” Howe said. “He’s a player with a real confidence and we’re seeing a return to his really best levels – that’s highlighted by the goals he has scored.”
It is clear that Isak’s success is intrinsically linked to the progress Newcastle has made under Howe’s guidance. The team is playing at a higher level, creating more opportunities for their strikers, and Isak is capitalizing on those chances. As the team improves, so too does his confidence and ability to score, which bodes well for both Isak’s future and Newcastle’s prospects.
Howe Desperate to Keep Alexander Isak at Newcastle
With the January transfer window approaching, Eddie Howe knows that Newcastle must do everything they can to retain Alexander Isak for the long term. Given his impressive performances and growing reputation in the Premier League, it is likely that other clubs will be watching closely and may seek to pry him away from St. James’ Park.
However, Howe made it clear that Newcastle has no intention of selling their star striker. “There’s no part of me or anyone at Newcastle that wants to let Alex go,” Howe said emphatically. “He’s very much part of our long-term plans. He’s first class.”
Isak is still relatively young at 25, and Howe believes he has the potential to achieve great things at Newcastle. The manager also noted that Isak’s commitment to the team is exemplary, as he is not just focused on his individual success but also on helping the team as a whole. “He plays for the team, not just for himself, and he’s always willing to learn,” Howe explained.
Newcastle’s ambitions remain high, and Howe is eager to see Isak contribute to the club’s pursuit of silverware in the coming seasons. “I would love for him to contribute to us winning a trophy,” Howe added. The manager’s words underscore the club’s long-term aspirations and Isak’s integral role in achieving them.
Alexander Isak’s Future at Newcastle: Long-Term Plans and Contract Talks
While there have been no formal contract talks yet, Howe assured that Isak’s future at Newcastle is secure for now, with the striker still having a long-term contract with the club. “I don’t think contract talks have started, but he has a long contract and when the time comes that will be discussed by Alex’s representatives and the football club,” Howe explained.
Given his importance to the team, it is only a matter of time before talks begin regarding a new contract or potential improvements to his current deal. For now, Isak is focused on continuing to perform at the highest level and contributing to Newcastle’s success.
Conclusion: Alexander Isak Premier League Hat-Trick Sets the Stage for the Future
Alexander Isak’s Premier League hat-trick against Ipswich Town marked a turning point in his career, showcasing his talent and reaffirming his importance to Newcastle United. As Howe has made clear, Isak is a “world-class talent” who is key to the team’s future ambitions. With Isak’s future at the club in focus ahead of the January transfer window, Howe is committed to keeping his star striker, who has already become one of the Premier League’s most exciting talents.
Isak’s journey at Newcastle is far from over, and with his ability to score goals at such a high level, the future looks incredibly bright for both him and the club.