Alexander Isak faced harsh chants from Newcastle fans when he came back playing against Liverpool.
Alexander Isak faced a tough welcome from Newcastle United fans when he returned to St James’ Park ahead of Liverpool’s first Premier League game. This reaction was expected because of what happened before he left the club last summer. He refused to train or play for Newcastle to make sure he could move to Liverpool for a British-record £125 million on deadline day.
Isak used to be a fan favorite in the North East after helping the team win the Carabao Cup in March 2025 — ironically against Liverpool, his current club. But now, many Magpies supporters see him as a villain because of how he left, which damaged the way fans remember him.
On Sunday, Isak came back to St James’ Park for the first time since leaving, and the 26-year-old got a taste of the fans’ anger before the game. Many supporters arrived early to show their frustration towards a player they once loved.
As he got off the bus, the striker was met with loud boos, which he tried to block out with his AirPods. Fans also chanted “rat,” a word used to describe someone who betrays their old team.
Isak started in Andoni Iraola’s first Premier League game as Liverpool’s manager. He played upfront with Florian Wirtz, while Cody Gakpo and Rio Ngumoha were on the wings. Last season, Isak only scored three goals in 14 league games due to injuries, but he’s hoping to kick off the Iraola era with a goal against his old club.
The harsh welcome Isak received was the main talking point, but so was the debut of Matthias Jaissle, Newcastle’s new boss stepping in after Eddie Howe’s surprising exit. When asked about Isak, Jaissle called on fans to support their team rather than the opposition.
“I like him a lot; he has pure quality as a player. I don’t know him personally, but our players will focus on themselves,” Jaissle said. “That’s what matters most. I also believe our fans will support our players fully.”
Jaissle arrived in England quietly but is eager to make a strong start. He included three new signings in his starting lineup against Liverpool: Arthur Dedic at right-back, young midfielder Sean Steur from Ajax, and goalkeeper Lukas Hornicek, who made his Newcastle debut.
Newcastle finished 12th last season, but with a promising German manager leading the way, they’ll be aiming to do better even after losing some key players.