Isak's match, but without Isak

Alexander Isak's name will be on everyone's lips this Monday at St. James' Park, but not for the right reasons. The Swedish forward was expected to be the star of the show in the match between Newcastle and Liverpool, but instead, he'll be watching from the stands. Liverpool has long identified the 'Magpies' striker as their primary target, and that hasn't changed.

Many had expected Isak to make a return to his old stomping ground with Arne Slot's team, a move that seemed inevitable at the start of the summer. However, Isak didn't push for a transfer, and Liverpool ultimately opted to sign Ekitiké instead.

Now, as the transfer window nears its close, with most teams finalizing their squads, Isak appears to be taking a public stance, seemingly refusing to play for Newcastle again—at least until September 2nd. The 'Magpies' have also made it clear they won't let him go unless an enormous offer comes their way.

This was supposed to be Isak's big return, but neither has the forward been quick enough to request his departure nor has Newcastle opened the door for him. As a result, the main player of the match will not even be on the pitch.

Everything could change between now and September 1st, when the Premier League transfer window closes. What’s certain, though, is that there’s still more to this Isak saga, whether it concludes before the deadline or continues afterward.