Life couldn’t be much sweeter for Newcastle fans right now.
The Magpies are riding high on a record-equalling nine-match winning streak across all competitions, have one of the world’s most in-form strikers in Alexander Isak, and are back in the Premier League's top four for the first time since September.
Isak’s red-hot form reached new heights in Wednesday’s dominant win over Wolves. The Swedish forward became the first Newcastle player to score in eight consecutive Premier League games, netting on either side of halftime before setting up Anthony Gordon for the Magpies’ third goal of the night.
The win propelled Eddie Howe’s team three points above Manchester City and left them nine points behind league leaders Liverpool, though the Magpies have played one more game.
Asked if Newcastle were now part of the title race, club legend Alan Shearer was emphatic: “Yes, they are. The form they’re in, their defensive solidity, and Isak up front – they’ve got a real chance.”
While Newcastle’s surge has been remarkable, overtaking Liverpool would require a monumental effort, as well as a slip-up from the league leaders. History, however, offers hope. Arsenal once overturned a 13-point deficit to win the Premier League in 1997-98, and Manchester United have famously clawed back double-digit gaps multiple times.
Still, Opta data currently gives Newcastle just a 0.1% chance of lifting the title. But as former Arsenal defender Martin Keown observed, “Newcastle keep getting better and better. Their story is building, and Isak is phenomenal.”
Howe Matches Keegan and Benitez
Eddie Howe’s remarkable turnaround is earning him comparisons to some of Newcastle’s most iconic managers. After guiding the Magpies to a Champions League spot in his first full season, Howe’s team stumbled early this term, sitting 12th in December after a poor run of form.
Since then, Newcastle have been unstoppable. They’ve racked up commanding wins over Ipswich, Leicester, and Aston Villa, alongside stunning victories at Manchester United and Tottenham. Their Carabao Cup semi-final triumph over Arsenal further cemented their status as a team to be reckoned with.
Integral to this resurgence is Sandro Tonali, whose performances from a deep-lying midfield role have allowed Bruno Guimarães and others to shine.
Wednesday’s victory over Wolves wasn’t without its nervy moments, as Newcastle relied on some fortunate defending, but their clinical edge in attack ensured they extended their winning streak. If Newcastle beat Bournemouth on Saturday, Howe will set a new club record of 10 consecutive victories.
“We know we can play better,” Howe admitted post-match. “But nine wins in a row is something to celebrate. There’s plenty to be positive about and areas to improve.”
The Isak Effect
Alexander Isak continues to set new benchmarks. His deflected opener against Wolves might have been lucky, but his second goal—a composed finish from a Bruno Guimarães pass—and his assist for Gordon showcased his class.
With 17 goals in 23 appearances this season, Isak joins an elite list of Premier League players to score in eight consecutive matches, alongside Ruud van Nistelrooy, Daniel Sturridge, and Jamie Vardy.
“Isak has everything,” Shearer said. “He’s the complete striker—clinical, confident, and tireless defensively. No one can stop him.”
With rumors linking Isak to Arsenal in the upcoming transfer window, Newcastle may face a fight to keep their talisman. However, prying him away from St. James’ Park would likely require a record-breaking fee.
For now, Newcastle fans can revel in their team’s extraordinary form, knowing that with Isak leading the charge and Howe at the helm, anything feels possible.
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