Alexander Isak’s £125 million transfer to Liverpool has become one of the biggest talking points of the summer. The striker’s decision to push for a move by refusing to train and play for Newcastle split opinion across the football world. Some saw it as unprofessional, while others argued it was the only way to secure his dream move.
One former Premier League star weighed in with strong support for the Swedish striker, insisting that players are too often judged harshly compared to clubs. According to him, footballers sometimes have no choice but to act decisively if they want to further their careers. He suggested that “nice guys don’t win,” pointing out that clubs regularly block transfers without facing the same criticism players receive.
The contrasting case of Marc Guehi highlights the complexity of modern transfers. The Crystal Palace captain had conducted himself with respect throughout the window, as a £35 million move to Liverpool was lined up. The defender even underwent parts of a medical, only for the deal to collapse at the last minute. Palace’s hierarchy, under pressure from their manager to keep him until a replacement was found, halted negotiations.
Guehi’s professionalism earned praise, but the consequences could be costly. He is now reluctant to sign a new contract and risks leaving on a free transfer next summer. Reports suggest his frustration is so deep that he may consider stepping down as captain. For him, the chance to join a title-chasing side has slipped away, at least for now.
Meanwhile, Isak has landed the move he wanted and will lead Liverpool’s attack this season. His camp insisted that forcing Newcastle’s hand was the only route left after months of stalled negotiations. Supporters of his decision argue that careers are short, and opportunities at elite clubs do not always come twice.
The two situations underline a wider debate in football: should players be punished for acting in their own interests, or should the same standards apply to both clubs and players? Isak’s approach, though controversial, delivered results. Guehi’s professionalism, on the other hand, left him stranded.
The summer transfer window has shown that in football’s ruthless business environment, the balance of power remains fragile and sometimes, as the saying goes, nice guys don’t win.
