10 fun facts about Alexander Isak

Alexander Isak is a talented Swedish footballer who plays as a forward for Newcastle United in the Premier League. He kicked off his professional journey with AIK in 2016, later moving on to Borussia Dortmund and Willem II before landing a spot with Real Sociedad in 2019.

In 2022, he made a significant move to Newcastle United, breaking the club’s transfer fee record. With over 40 caps for the Swedish national team since 2017, Isak also made his mark at UEFA Euro 2020. Notably, he holds the title of being the youngest goalscorer for both AIK and the Swedish national team. Let’s dive into some interesting facts about this rising star.

1. Started his career aged six

At the tender age of six, he embarked on his football journey by joining the youth team of AIK, one of the most prominent clubs in the region and his beloved Allsvenskan team.

2. Unique attributes

Isak’s footballing prowess has often been compared to that of a unicorn due to his extraordinary physical attributes. Despite his height, Isak possesses remarkable agility and impressive technical skills.

His speed and exceptional ball control make him a rare breed among tall players, as he exhibits abilities typically associated with players of smaller stature. In addition to his proficiency in converting chances, Isak also possesses the ability to create opportunities for himself to take shots at goal.

3. Compared to Zlatan

When Isak made his debut with AIK at the age of 16, he was often compared to Ibrahimović. Despite their contrasting playing styles, demeanors, and personalities, the fact that Isak is tall and Swedish made these comparisons unavoidable. Moreover, there was a certain resemblance in terms of their elegant athleticism and sheer strength.

4. Nicknamed giraffe

Standing at 6ft 2in, the striker earned the nickname ‘Giraffe’ from his former teammates, who were impressed by his slender physique and long neck.

5. Youngest Swedish national team goalscorer in history

Isak’s exceptional performance didn’t end there. In January 2017, he received a call-up to the Sweden first-team squad for two friendly matches. Following his debut as a substitute against the Ivory Coast, he was given his first start against Slovakia just four days later.

Isak made an immediate impact by scoring the opening goal in Sweden’s impressive 6-0 triumph. At the age of 17 years, three months, and 22 days, he became the youngest goalscorer in his country’s history, breaking a record that had stood for 105 years.

6. Youngest debutant goalscorer in Swedish top-tier

Isak made a strong impression in his first game by netting the decisive goal in a 2-1 victory for AIK, becoming the youngest debutant to score in the league. This outstanding feat solidified his status as a highly sought-after talent in Swedish football at the time.

7. Scored three penalties in one game

Isak showcased his unwavering calmness from the penalty spot, making history as the first player to convert three penalties in a single Eredivisie match.

This remarkable feat contributed to a thrilling 3-2 triumph over Fortuna Sittard. Additionally, Isak’s exceptional form saw him netting an impressive tally of 12 goals in just as many Eredivisie games, solidifying his status as the first foreign-born player to achieve such a remarkable milestone.

8. Youngest player to score in five consecutive La Liga games

Isak, at the age of 21 years and 146 days, holds the record for being the youngest player to score in five consecutive La Liga games in the 21st century. This achievement surpasses Sergio ‘Kun’ Aguero’s record by 75 days and Antonio Sanabria’s record by 85 days.

9. Music lover

Isak excels not just in football, but also possesses a refined taste in music. His passion for music shines through in his listening choices, as he was previously seen rapping on the sidelines while playing for Sociedad.

During an interview with LaLiga, Isak shared that he enjoys listening to music before matches as a pre-game ritual to mentally prepare himself. He further elaborated that music uplifts his spirits and keeps him focused and driven on the field.

10. Adidas ambassador

Isak serves as an ambassador for Adidas and has partnered with the brand on multiple initiatives. One notable collaboration is the introduction of his own signature boot, the Adidas Nemeziz Alexander Isak.

Additionally, Isak has been prominently featured in Adidas’ advertising campaigns, such as the ‘Impossible Is Nothing’ campaign in 2021. By teaming up with Isak, Adidas gains access to his strong marketability and influence within the Swedish fanbase.