The Double-Edged Sword of Loyalty in Football: Isak and the Modern Dilemma
Loyalty, a cherished virtue, often clashes with the harsh reality of modern football, where business sometimes prevails. Alexander Isak, a Newcastle United player, finds himself at the center of the current controversy, following in the footsteps of figures like Trent Alexander-Arnold, Harry Kane, and Robin van Persie.
The fanbase, known for its unconditional devotion, often expresses its support permanently. However, the situation changes drastically when a player seeks new horizons, leading to accusations of disloyalty.
Rasmus Højlund from Manchester United, Crystal Palace captain Marc Guéhi, and Raheem Sterling from Chelsea, are examples of how clubs can also make decisions that affect loyalty. Often, these decisions are based on financial considerations.
Isak, who hasn’t played with Newcastle this summer due to his desire to join Liverpool, has been labeled as “Judas” by some fans. A banner at the training ground called him a “Pure Rat”, and he was the subject of hostile chants during the 0-0 draw against Aston Villa.
Isak’s situation reflects similar experiences. Alexander-Arnold was booed by Liverpool fans, while Kane was criticized by Tottenham supporters during his failed attempt to sign for Manchester City in 2021. Van Persie, for his part, still faces resentment from Arsenal fans for his transfer to Manchester United in 2012.
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe and the fans have reason to be disappointed in Isak, who signed a long-term contract after arriving for a record fee of £63 million. However, it’s naive to think that a contract guarantees total loyalty.
Isak’s achievements, including his contribution to the team’s Champions League qualification and his role in the Carabao Cup victory, suggest that he has met expectations. Despite this, he has not received a lucrative new contract, and the club has not significantly strengthened the team. Isak has raised his level, but the club has not reciprocated.
Loyalty would imply that Isak stays and helps Newcastle reach their level, but the club hasn’t responded to the challenge. Therefore, his desire to seek new horizons is understandable, although his tactics may generate controversy.
Hypocrisy is evident when a club decides that a player is no longer useful.0:58 Should Manchester United drop Rasmus Højlund? Gabriele Marcotti and Stewart Robson debate whether Manchester United should drop Rasmus Højlund after his recent performances.
Højlund, signed for 72 million pounds from Atalanta in 2023, has publicly expressed his desire to stay at Manchester United and fight for his place. However, the club could seek his departure to balance the finances, and AC Milan is interested in signing him.
Palace defender Guéhi is willing to fulfill the last year of his contract despite interest from Liverpool and Newcastle. On the other hand, Sterling is another player who is forced to leave Chelsea against his will.
Loyalty in football is a complex concept. Fans are guided by emotion, but for players and clubs, football is a ruthless business. Isak will not be the last player to seek a transfer, and there will be many more like Højlund, Guéhi and Sterling, who will be at the mercy of their clubs’ finances, whether they like it or not. Right now, Isak has that power and is using it.
