Anthony Gordon pens emotional goodbye to 'brother' Alexander Isak after seeing Newcastle team-mate complete controversial Liverpool transfer

After refusing to travel with the Magpies for their pre-season tour of Asia, Isak’s absence spoke volumes about his mindset. Frustrations boiled over in August when he released a stinging personal statement, accusing Newcastle of backtracking on promises made about his future. It was the moment supporters realised the romance between player and club was beyond repair. By the final hours of deadline day, the move to Anfield was inevitable. 

What caught many off guard was Newcastle’s muted farewell. The official club statement ran to a meagre 37 words, striking a cold, businesslike tone. For a player who had delivered countless goals and helped elevate the club on the European stage, the brevity of the message highlighted the strained relationship. It was a goodbye that felt more like a legal obligation than a heartfelt thank-you. 

If the club’s farewell was underwhelming, Gordon’s message was the opposite. The England international, who built a sparkling partnership with Isak on the pitch, made sure his teammate received the recognition he deserved.

“Regardless of the situation & what’s gone on,” Gordon wrote on social media, “it’s been a pleasure to play with you. One of the best chemistries I’ve had on the pitch and more importantly a great person and teammate. I wish you nothing but the best, brother.” 

Isak’s exit left a gaping hole in Newcastle’s frontline, but the club scrambled to soften the blow. Stuttgart’s Nick Woltemade and Brentford’s Yoane Wissa were drafted in on deadline day to bolster Eddie Howe’s attacking options. Neither player arrives with the star power of Isak, but both are seen as valuable additions who could develop into reliable performers. The question remains whether they can collectively replace the goals and presence of their departed talisman.   

Isak now links up with his Swedish teammates for World Cup qualifiers against Slovenia and Kosovo before returning to England, where he is expected to make his Liverpool debut against Burnley after the international break.