Sunday, December 07, 2025

NEWCASTLE DEFENDER REFLECTS ON HIGH-PROFILE DEPARTURE

1 min read

Newcastle United defender Dan Burn has expressed his support for former teammate Alexander Isak following his record-breaking transfer to Liverpool, while acknowledging the frustration felt by supporters over the drawn-out saga.

The Swedish striker completed a £125 million move to Merseyside, a deal that became one of the most talked-about of the transfer window. Burn stated he is relieved the speculation has concluded, allowing the squad to focus on the season ahead with a settled group.

“You’re always glad when the window shuts and there’s clarity for everyone,” the defender commented. “Having been in the game a long time, you understand a player’s career is short and they have personal ambitions. While you want your best players to stay, I bear no ill will. He’s a friend, and I wish him well in his career, except of course when we face him on the pitch.”

Burn admitted he understands the disappointment from the fanbase, noting the unique passion of the Newcastle supporters. “Our fans are incredibly protective of the club. They want players who are fully committed to the cause, so the situation was always going to be difficult for them.”

According to Burn, Isak informed his now-former teammates of his decision through a group message, which was met with positive responses from the squad. The defender suggested the situation has, in some ways, strengthened the unity within the remaining playing group.

The club moved quickly to reinforce its attacking options, bringing in new signings to compensate for the departure. Burn believes the overall business conducted during the window has left the team in a stronger position, particularly with the added demands of European football this season.

“Looking at our window as a whole, we’ve recruited intelligently in key areas,” he said. “The lesson from our last Champions League campaign was the need for a deeper squad, and the club has addressed that. We’ve lost a top player, but we’ve also secured a significant fee and brought in quality. Now it’s about moving forward together.”