Alexander Isak returned to St James’ Park on Sunday for the first time since his £125 million transfer from Newcastle United to Liverpool last summer, receiving a decidedly mixed welcome from the home supporters. The former Newcastle striker, who notably scored a celebrated goal against Liverpool at Wembley in 2025, faced loud boos as he entered the stadium wearing Liverpool’s tracksuit.

As Isak disembarked from the team bus and made his way up to the Milburn Stand, the reaction from the crowd underscored the lingering tension surrounding his departure. Despite his efforts to remain composed with headphones in place, the former Toon striker was unable to avoid the negative reception, which quickly drew the attention of photographers and media personnel present for the match.

Newcastle manager Matthias Jaissle acknowledged the atmosphere ahead of the game and urged fans to focus on supporting the current squad rather than individual players who have since left. “I would be pleased when our fans and I believe that they will just follow us and support us as a team,” Jaissle said. “Again, I think this energy will be the most important thing, that the players feel that energy from the stands. Then we want to deliver our game, we want to play our way of football, like the Newcastle United fans are expecting, and then we will have a fantastic Sunday evening.”

The match highlighted the ongoing balancing act for Newcastle supporters as they welcome back former players who have moved on to rival clubs, while maintaining enthusiasm and encouragement for the current Newcastle squad under Jaissle’s leadership.