Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak is a major doubt for Saturday’s Premier League clash against Manchester City, as confirmed by manager Eddie Howe. The Swedish forward is currently dealing with a broken toe and could miss the visit of the reigning champions. In addition, fellow striker Callum Wilson has also been ruled out, leaving Howe with a selection headache up front.
Isak had a standout season in the Premier League last year, scoring 21 goals in 27 appearances. Only Manchester City’s Erling Haaland and Cole Palmer scored more, establishing Isak as one of the league’s most dangerous forwards. However, the 25-year-old has struggled to replicate that form this season, netting just once in an underwhelming start for Newcastle. That lone goal was a crucial winner against Tottenham, but Isak’s dip in form reflects Newcastle’s own inconsistent performances so far this campaign.
“He’ll be a doubt for tomorrow. He’s had scans, he’s had lots of tests,” Howe confirmed. “The injury has been diagnosed fine, there are no issues there. It sounds worse than it is, but he’s got a broken toe. It’s one that can be managed and played with, providing he can tolerate the pain levels, and it will have no long-term risks.” Howe explained that Isak had an injection to numb the pain last week, which worked temporarily. “It was fine until the injection wore off. Let’s see how he is today.”
Newcastle’s injury woes are not limited to their front line. Alongside Isak and Wilson, the squad is dealing with long-term absences of key players such as Sven Botman, Jamaal Lascelles, and Lewis Miley. Despite being unbeaten until last week’s 3-1 defeat at Fulham, Newcastle’s performances have been less than convincing. The team is now searching for its first league win over Manchester City since 2019.
The potential absence of Isak, combined with Wilson’s unavailability, could force Howe to explore alternative options in attack as Newcastle prepares to face a City side eager to maintain their spot at the top of the Premier League table.