Wayne Rooney Weighs in on Alexander Isak’s Liverpool Saga: Attitude Could Be a Major Red Flag
Wayne Rooney has added his voice to the ongoing debate surrounding Newcastle striker Alexander Isak, who is currently making headlines for all the wrong reasons. Despite being one of the Premier League’s most prolific forwards—scoring an impressive 54 goals in just 89 appearances—the Swedish international has sparked controversy by refusing to train as he pushes for a big-money move to Liverpool.
Isak still has two years left on his Newcastle contract, but tensions have flared after the Magpies’ hierarchy rejected Liverpool’s opening bid last month. His absence in the goalless draw against Aston Villa highlighted the strain between player and club, with fans left frustrated that their star striker was missing in a game where his finishing might have made the difference.
Speaking on Match of the Day, Rooney did not hold back. The former Manchester United and England captain stressed that Isak’s behavior could tarnish his reputation—not just at Newcastle but also in the eyes of potential suitors like Liverpool. According to Rooney, refusing to train or play is a poor reflection of professionalism. “Teammates expect commitment every day,” he explained. “When you pull on the shirt, you give everything. Isak has gone about this in the wrong way, and it could make Liverpool second-guess whether he’s the type of player they want in their dressing room.”
Rooney also suggested that Isak may be receiving poor advice, but ultimately, he stressed that players must take responsibility for their own actions. The striker’s approach, he warned, risks alienating not only fans but also his fellow professionals, making it “very difficult” for him to rebuild trust at St James’ Park if a transfer doesn’t materialize.
Unsurprisingly, Rooney’s stance struck a chord with Newcastle supporters, many of whom applauded his comments. On social media, fans labeled Isak’s conduct “disrespectful” and praised Rooney for “saying what needed to be said.” Others pointed out the irony of Liverpool supporters backing Isak’s strike while having criticized their own players, such as Ibrahima Konaté, during previous contract disputes.
Not everyone agreed, however. Some argued that Newcastle’s refusal to sell Isak, despite his clear desire to leave, was just as questionable. Others highlighted similar cases—such as Brentford’s Yoane Wissa pushing for a move to Tyneside—and suggested that Rooney’s comments might carry bias depending on the club involved.
Still, with Liverpool’s visit to Newcastle looming in gameweek two, the situation adds an extra layer of drama to an already heated fixture. Whether Isak stays, forces his way out, or attempts to mend fences with the Geordie faithful, Rooney’s blunt assessment has put the spotlight firmly on how players balance ambition with professionalism in the modern game.
