No animosity to Alexander Isak: Dan Burn reveals players' stance amid Liverpool move

England and Newcastle United defender Dan Burn said on Friday, September 5, that he held no grudges against Alexander Isak following the striker’s record-breaking transfer to Liverpool, stressing he understood the Swede’s ambition even if Newcastle fans felt betrayed.

Liverpool confirmed the signing of Isak on Monday for a reported British record fee, ending weeks of speculation and a standoff between the striker and his former club. The 25-year-old, who had openly expressed his desire to leave at the start of the transfer window, was sidelined from Newcastle’s pre-season and opening league fixtures before finally securing his move to Anfield.

Speaking at an England press conference ahead of Saturday’s World Cup qualifier against Andorra, Burn said the clarity was welcome for players inside the dressing room.

“I am glad it is done. We wanted the transfer window closed to have a bit of clarity on it,” the 33-year-old centre-back said. “I have been in football long enough to understand that for a player, careers are short, and they have things they want to achieve. Alex is a mate, and it is a tough situation because you want him to be around and helping the team, but I also understand what he needs to do personally.”

Isak’s decision has not gone down well with Newcastle supporters, who saw his early hero status at St James’ Park fade quickly. His insistence on leaving drew a cold reaction from the stands once the transfer was confirmed, but Burn said there was no animosity inside the squad.

“As a Newcastle fan, we are very protective of our club and city, and we want players who want to be here,” Burn explained. “I understand why our fans are frustrated. You don’t want them to think there is anywhere else apart from Newcastle. But I wish Alex all the best — apart from when we play Liverpool, obviously.”

Isak leaves after two seasons in which he scored 35 goals across all competitions and played a pivotal role in Newcastle’s League Cup triumph last season, ending a 70-year wait for silverware, as well as their return to the Champions League.

For Burn, who made his England debut in March, the coming season is another chance to push himself at the highest level.

“I feel the older I get, the better I am becoming,” he said. “It’s an exciting season. to play Champions League again at 33 and also have the possibility of making the World Cup squad motivates me to keep improving.”