Michael Owen Reacts After Alexander Isak Joins Liverpool

Following the official confirmation of Alexander Isak’s British-record move to Liverpool, former Red and Newcastle striker Michael Owen has offered his perspective on the transfer saga. Owen, a figure familiar with controversial moves between clubs, has been vocal throughout the summer, often defending Isak’s actions and refusing to criticize the player’s push for a transfer.

​In a series of public statements and social media posts, Owen has consistently argued that the football world is quick to condemn a player for forcing a move, while clubs often act in a similar fashion with little public backlash. He highlighted the hypocrisy of many pundits and former players who were critical of Isak, suggesting that they themselves would have done the same to secure a move to a top club. “I will not condone a player refusing to play,” Owen stated, “but what I don’t agree with is all these ex-players coming out, sticking up for the club…they all would’ve done exactly the same, all of them.”

​Owen’s stance, while praised by some for its honesty, has also drawn criticism from those who feel his own career, including his move from Liverpool to Real Madrid and then to Newcastle, clouds his credibility. However, he maintained that a player’s career is short and that a move to a club like Liverpool, which he considers “probably the best team in the world at the moment,” is a “dream move” that any ambitious player would seek.

​The former England international also took to social media to draw a pointed comparison between Isak’s successful, albeit acrimonious, transfer and the collapsed deal for Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi to join Liverpool. Owen’s post, which read, “Hmmm. Behave badly and get the move you want. Behave like a gentleman and miss out on the opportunity of a lifetime. No prizes for guessing how players will act in the future if this is the result,” encapsulates his view on the harsh realities of the modern transfer market.

​While acknowledging the messy nature of the departure, Owen’s ultimate sentiment appears to be one of understanding and a pragmatic acceptance of how top-tier transfers are conducted. He believes Isak’s undeniable talent “ticks a lot of boxes” for Liverpool and, despite the backlash, the Swedish striker has simply done what many others would in pursuit of their professional ambitions.