Newcastle United Concern Over Duo as Eddie Howe Gives Alexander Isak Injury Update
As Newcastle United push through a critical period in their Premier League campaign, manager Eddie Howe finds himself navigating a growing injury crisis that could derail the club’s European ambitions. Most notably, concerns are mounting over the fitness of star striker Alexander Isak and influential midfielder Bruno Guimaraes—two key figures in Howe’s system.
While Newcastle’s 2024/25 season has been a mixture of promise and frustration, injuries have consistently hampered momentum. With vital fixtures on the horizon, the latest updates from Howe about his sidelined players have sparked both anxiety and speculation among fans and pundits alike.
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Alexander Isak’s Injury: A Persistent Issue
Isak has been a talismanic figure for Newcastle since his arrival from Real Sociedad. His blend of pace, composure, and finishing prowess has made him one of the Premier League’s most dangerous forwards. However, his time at St James’ Park has also been plagued by recurring injuries, particularly related to his hamstrings.
In January 2025, Isak suffered a setback during a Carabao Cup clash, ruling him out for several weeks. At the time, Howe insisted the injury was not severe, but it was clear the club was exercising caution to prevent further damage. Isak returned in February and hit the ground running, scoring in back-to-back league games and reaffirming his importance to the side.
However, his latest knock, sustained during the recent Premier League encounter against Liverpool, has once again thrown his availability into doubt. Isak appeared to pull up mid-run and was substituted shortly after, prompting fears of another hamstring strain. During a recent press conference, Howe admitted that the medical team was still assessing the full extent of the damage.
> “It’s too early to say definitively how long Alex will be out,” Howe told reporters. “It doesn’t look serious, but with hamstrings, we always tread carefully. He’s a big player for us, and we won’t take unnecessary risks.”
That conservative approach may be the right one for Isak’s long-term health, but it poses an immediate dilemma. Newcastle’s attack functions at a much higher level with Isak leading the line. Without him, Howe will likely turn to Callum Wilson—another prolific striker with his own history of injuries. It’s a balancing act that could affect Newcastle’s attacking rhythm at a crucial time.
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Bruno Guimaraes: Midfield Maestro Sidelined
If Isak is the finisher, then Bruno Guimaraes is the orchestrator. The Brazilian has been a revelation since joining from Lyon, bringing intelligence, bite, and technical class to Newcastle’s midfield. His ability to dictate tempo, win duels, and provide incisive passes makes him indispensable in both transitional and possession-based systems.
Guimaraes’ injury occurred during the 2-1 win over Fulham, where he was seen limping off at halftime after an awkward challenge led to an apparent ankle twist. Despite initially trying to play on, the pain proved too much, and he was replaced. Howe confirmed post-match that Guimaraes had “turned his ankle” and would undergo scans.
> “It looked like a rolled ankle, but those can vary quite a bit,” Howe said. “We’re hopeful it’s nothing too damaging, but again, we won’t know until we’ve had a proper look.”
Even a minor absence for Guimaraes would be a blow. His influence on both ends of the pitch has grown this season. Whether operating as a deep-lying playmaker or pushing forward in a more advanced role, he has consistently delivered. In games without him, Newcastle have struggled to control midfield battles—a key reason for their patchy form in the first half of the campaign.
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The Impact on Newcastle’s European Push
Both injuries come at a time when Newcastle are vying for a Europa League spot and hoping to build momentum heading into the season’s final stretch. Sitting in 7th place, just outside the European qualification zone, every match now carries extra weight. Missing two of their most pivotal players could derail the run-in if replacements don’t step up.
In Isak’s absence, Howe could opt for a more fluid front line, potentially deploying Anthony Gordon centrally or turning to the experienced but less mobile Wilson. Similarly, replacing Guimaraes is no easy task. Joe Willock, Sean Longstaff, and Lewis Miley all offer different traits, but none can replicate Guimaraes’ all-round quality.
Howe’s tactical flexibility will be tested as he looks to balance defensive solidity with attacking intent—without two of his top stars. A compact midfield may be necessary to avoid being overrun, especially in tough away fixtures. The use of a double pivot, possibly pairing Longstaff with Willock, could offer some protection but would limit creativity.
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A Bigger Picture: Fitness Concerns All Season
The timing of these injuries is a continuation of what has been a frustrating theme for Newcastle this season. Several first-team players, including Harvey Barnes, Sven Botman, and Kieran Trippier, have all spent extended spells on the sidelines. The medical team has been under pressure to manage workloads in a compressed fixture calendar, especially with the additional demands of European football.
While injuries are part and parcel of elite football, the sheer frequency of Newcastle’s absentees has raised questions about conditioning and squad depth. The January window saw limited reinforcements, and while youth players like Lewis Miley have impressed, they’re being asked to contribute heavily in high-pressure moments.
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Howe’s Calm Under Pressure
Through it all, Eddie Howe has maintained a calm, measured approach. Known for his meticulous preparation and composed demeanor, Howe continues to put trust in his squad and emphasizes adaptability. His belief in a team-first ethic is evident in how seamlessly players like Anthony Gordon and Tino Livramento have slotted in when called upon.
> “Every squad has to cope with injuries,” Howe remarked recently. “It’s about how you respond. We’ve had setbacks before and come through them. This will be no different.”
His steady hand will be vital if Newcastle are to weather this latest storm. Managing the minutes of key players, rotating intelligently, and perhaps leaning more on tactical conservatism will be the way forward until Isak and Guimaraes return.
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Conclusion: A Pivotal Test of Squad Depth and Resilience
Injuries to Alexander Isak and Bruno Guimaraes have cast a shadow over Newcastle’s final stretch of the 2024/25 season. Both players are central to Eddie Howe’s system and their absence—however short—will test Newcastle’s depth and character.
While the full extent of their injuries is still being evaluated, the timing is unfortunate. As Newcastle aim to secure a top-seven finish and European qualification, every match matters more than ever. Eddie Howe will need to rely on the entire squad, adapt his tactics, and perhaps even look to some of his younger players to step into the spotlight.
If Newcastle can hold their ground until their stars return, they will remain in the hunt. But if the void left by Isak and Guimaraes proves too great, this could be the stretch tha
t defines whether the Magpies soar into Europe—or are left grounded once again.
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