Another week another amazing Alexander Isak performance. This time it was the “best” centre-back partnership in the league who felt the wrath of the Swedish striker. Despite not scoring a goal in the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg it was the Isak show. His performance was so impressive social media users began to compare William Saliba to former Arsenal defender Shkodran Mustafi who was best remembered for his costly mistakes.
Isak has been a consistent performer over the last two and a half seasons, in 74 appearances or 62.0 90s, he has 48 goals at a rate of 0.77 per 90, a very healthy return from an xG of 42.7 showing his efficiency over the period.
His conversion rate of 22% is efficient and shows he can be trusted to take the chances he gets. His penalty record is also quite impressive with 8 of 9 so far showing he can be relied upon from the spot.
His raw assist numbers leave a little to be desired but that may be due to the lack of other prolific goal-scorers in the squad. In addition, he has assisted 9.7 xG meaning that 8 assists is lower than he would expect given the chances he has created.
He also has 3.13 shot-creating actions per 90 which is around the 90th percentile for strikers according to FBref. His skill is also shown by his 1.73 take-ons per 90 at a rate of 49.3% also hovering around the 90th percentile showing that he is not just about the goals.
These great performances have become more common over the last year and have many questioning just how far he can go. The 25-year-old came to Newcastle with high expectations after a big money move from Spanish side Real Sociedad.
His first season was slightly disappointing as he was unable to displace Callum Wilson due to injuries, but Newcastle managed to finish 4th and make a triumphant return to the Champions League.
However, despite a personal improvement where he scored 11 more goals his side’s performances dipped and Newcastle crashed out of the UCL in the group stage and finished 7th in the league. Isak also managed to play more games putting some of his injury issues behind him.
This season Isak has taken another step. He is more available playing 83.3% of his side’s PL minutes compared to an average of 62.0% over the period showing he may be overcoming his injury issues and can be relied upon to start a big number of games.
His 17 goals have come at a rate of 0.85 per 90 up from 0.77 for his Newcastle career, and his conversion rate is at 25% above his current 22% average. This was helped by his great run late last year where he scored in 8 straight games.
The question is whether Newcastle can surround him with players to allow a striker of his level to compete for the biggest trophies or he should make a move to a more established club which is closer to that level.
The case for staying at Newcastle and winning their first trophy since the 1950s is huge. Isak would be assured legendary status for sure if were to win major trophies with the club. There is another final to look forward to with the Carabao Cup but with so many strong teams in England, it would likely be one of the few opportunities.
The alternative is to become the final piece in an already established side. Arsenal have a gaping hole in the number 9 position as Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus are not up to scratch. Liverpool seem to have given up Darwin Nunez and will need to sign a replacement. In addition, Mohamed Salah is aging, and a replacement will be needed sooner rather than later.
Whatever decision Isak makes he is one of the best centre forwards in the world and he will improve any team he joins. He has to be smart about his next move and join a team that will allow him to display his talent at the highest level and challenge for the biggest trophies as his talent and performances deserve.
