Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has admitted he feels some sympathy for Newcastle manager Eddie Howe amid the Alexander Isak transfer saga, but insists the pursuit of the Swedish striker is strictly business. Slot revealed Howe is the only Premier League manager he has exchanged messages with during his time at Liverpool and praised him as “a very nice, honest and polite colleague.” Despite this, Slot stressed that Newcastle still have multiple attacking options, meaning his sympathy is limited when it comes to on-field competition.
Intense Clash Expected at St James’ Park
Isak will miss Newcastle’s first home game of the season, having effectively gone on strike to push for a £110 million move to Liverpool. The Premier League champions have also signed Hugo Ekitiké as a potential replacement. Slot anticipates a tense atmosphere when Liverpool visit St James’ Park on Monday and acknowledged the impact of Isak’s absence on Howe’s preparations. Reflecting on his squad depth, Slot highlighted forwards including Gordon, Murphy, Elanga, Barnes, and Florian Wirtz as part of Liverpool’s attacking options, emphasizing that tactical flexibility and new acquisitions will shape how the club navigates the remainder of the transfer window.
