Isak's rise to the top

Alexander Isak has always dealt with the pressure of potential. As a 16-year-old he became the youngest scorer in local club AIK's league history, and quickly established himself as a hot prospect across Europe. Comparisons to legendary countryman Zlatan Ibrahimovic soon followed, but the pair could hardly have been more contrasting.

Ibrahimovic's brash, ego-driven persona was not shared by Isak. Born to Eritrean parents in Stockholm, he grew up humble and introverted, eventually developing into the sort of player and person Newcastle wanted to build their project around.

In 2017 Isak moved to Borussia Dortmund, a breeding ground for potential superstars, but unlike Jadon Sancho, Jude Bellingham and Erling Haaland, life in Germany did not work out. Coaches who worked with him recognised his ability, but the player's shyness stopped him from establishing himself.

However, one meeting between Isak and then Dortmund reserves boss Jan Siewert helped him turn his career around. Over coffee, Siewert showed the young striker two pictures side by side - one of the player sitting on the Dortmund substitutes' bench, another of him smiling after scoring for Sweden. Siewert asked Isak what the difference was. Confidence. After opening up about his lack of it, Isak began to feel more comfortable.

Read more of Harry's article on Isak here