Alexander Isak: The Unconventional Footballer

Alexander Isak, the rising star in the world of football, is not your typical football fan. Growing up in Solna, Sweden, Isak was more focused on playing the game rather than watching it. His lack of interest in historical football knowledge has made him unique among his peers.

Now, at the age of 24, Isak admits that his memory of past World Cups and older football players is quite poor. He followed LaLiga, the Spanish top division, which he later joined with Real Sociedad. He knows of the Sweden team from the 2000s that featured legends like Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Henrik Larsson, and Freddie Ljungberg, but beyond that, his knowledge is limited. However, Isak believes that every player has their own way of finding excitement in the game, whether it’s through watching and learning or focusing solely on their own performance.

Recently, Isak had the opportunity to meet Alan Shearer, a club legend and football icon. They discussed Isak’s finishing skills, his love for scoring goals, and his growing understanding of the regional dialect in Newcastle, where he currently plays for the Magpies.

Despite his success on the field, Isak has faced challenges due to injuries. He believes that his confidence and overall performance are closely tied to his physical well-being. This season has tested the belief of Newcastle United, but Isak remains optimistic about their chances to secure a European place and make a strong FA Cup run. He emphasizes the importance of collective effort and consistency within the team.

Isak praises the coaching style of Eddie Howe, who encourages his players to stay focused on the present moment. The pressure to perform at the highest level is always present, but Isak handles it with composure. His calmness is vital to Newcastle’s success, and his absence during the recent match against Aston Villa was felt.

Looking ahead, Isak does not want to set specific targets but instead aims to win as many games as possible. He acknowledges the opportunity to make a mark in both the Premier League and the FA Cup. This interview provides a glimpse into the mind of an unconventional footballer who approaches the game in his own unique way.

This interview was featured in the latest issue of UNITED, the official matchday programme for Newcastle’s game against Luton Town.