Alexander Isak of Newcastle United celebrates scoring his team's first goal(Image: Stu Forster/Getty Images)

Does Alexander Isak support Arsenal as Newcastle ace drops hint in Premier League clash

02 Nov 2024, 14:15 by Will Evans · football.london

Alexander Isak gave Newcastle United an early lead over Arsenal following rumours he's a secret Gunners fan amid reports linking him with a move to the North London side.

It's no secret that Mikel Arteta is looking to strengthen Arsenal's attacking options as soon as possible. It's widely regarded as the Gunners' biggest weakness, with the lack of a proven goalscorer a problem for several seasons now.

Isak has been strongly linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium, and his thumping headed goal against the North London side has raised questions about his relationship with the club. He's often been compared to Arsenal legend Thierry Henry, who was coincidentally Isak's idol growing up.

"Henry’s the player I admired growing up, so I can’t complain. I enjoyed that one. They know me in England better now," he told the Times in an interview.

The fact Isak chose to wear Henry's iconic number 14 when he moved to the North East also confirms how much he idolises the former Arsenal forward. While it might point to the Swede growing up an Arsenal supporter too, his goal celebration against them seems to squash all rumours he's a fan.

Anthony Gordon's superb cross was met by Isak who rose to head the Magpies into the lead. He looked thrilled with a knee slide celebration in front of the iconic Gallowgate Stand - while some players have previously opted for more muted celebrations when scoring against the side they support or have previously played for.

During his time with Swedish top-tier side AIK, he was courted by several top European clubs - including Real Madrid - before opting to move to Borussia Dortmund. It has been claimed it is Swedish outfit AIK who Isak really supports, though.

While he initially failed to shine in Germany, a loan spell at Dutch side Willem II allowed him to show his true potential. During his time there he scored an impressive 14 goals in just 18 appearances which earned him a move to Spanish side Real Sociedad.

He went on to become the youngest player in La Liga history to score in five consecutive games and shone for his home nation during Euro 2020, cementing him as one of Europe's brightest young talents. The Gunners moved in to sign him a year later but failed to activate his release clause at Sociedad.

Their interest remains to this day, especially now he's Premier League-proven. If Newcastle fail to qualify for the Champions League this season then a summer offer could tempt the player who will be looking to make a step up.

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