Newcastle United defender Emil Krafth has hit back at suggestions that there is a potential rift in the Sweden camp following Alexander Isak’s move to Liverpool.
Isak, who scored 27 times across all competitions for the Magpies last season, moved to Anfield on deadline day for a British transfer record of £130m. The switch followed weeks of uncertainty and a dispute between Isak and United, with the 25-year-old expressing a desire to leave St James’ Park but the club refusing to sell him. But Isak ultimately got his dream transfer and is in line to make his Reds debut after the international break.
It had been suggested there could be some tension in the Sweden squad given the presence of Magpies duo Krafth and Anthony Elanga. But speaking to Swedish newspaper Sportbladet today, Krafth rejected claims there is a split in the dressing room.
“There were many who wanted to see Alex stay but you understand how football works,” he said. “I wish him all the best in the future. For me, Alex is not just a footballer, but a close friend too.
“The media wrote that the locker room would be divided. That is certainly not true. Football players understand football players and we can only wish him the best of luck.
“As Anthony (Elanga) said, it has been very chill. No one has said or done anything. It is just taken out of thin air. You understand his and the club’s situation. Of course, they would have wanted to keep him, he is an incredibly good football player.”
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Krafth said he was in “constant” contact with Isak throughout a rollercoaster summer, speaking to his former teammate on the phone and in person. “It’s clear that there were tough times for him but he’s also strong mentally,” he said. “It’s clear that it was hard for him, but he got through it.
“It’s not easy that way. But you have to try not to read too much into it. You understand both sides. The fans’ frustration and that you want to keep your best player. And you understand Alex, that he might want to take the next step.”