'Nice Guys Don't Win' - Manchester United Legend Backs Alexander Isak Amid Criticism

Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has come out in support of Alexander Isak after the Swede demanded a move away from Newcastle, refusing to train or play for the team.

While his conduct was widely criticised, including by Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher, he ultimately got his wish and secured a transfer to Liverpool.

In contrast, Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi handled his situation with utmost professionalism, yet the Eagles blocked his departure.

"Nice guys don't win," was Rio Ferdinand's conclusion on the events of transfer deadline day. He was speaking at a football industry conference in Hong Kong.

"Clubs get away with murder in these situations. How many players over the years have been denied a transfer because the clubs said one thing or another? They've acted greedily.

"But players are vilified when they say, 'This is a good offer, a lot of money, why won't you let me go? I want to go to a club that wins trophies.'"

Meanwhile, Marc Guehi's proposed transfer to Liverpool collapsed on deadline day, leaving the player reportedly 'furious.' The deal, valued at £35 million, was reportedly agreed upon by Crystal Palace and Liverpool, and Guehi had even begun a medical in London.

However, Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parish ultimately pulled the plug on the transfer. This decision was reportedly influenced by manager Oliver Glasner, who had made it clear he would not sell Guehi without a suitable replacement.

While Palace had been pursuing other defenders, including a loan for Brighton's Igor Julio, none of the deals materialised.

Marc Guehi, who had acted respectfully throughout the summer, is now reportedly unwilling to sign a new contract with Crystal Palace, meaning he could leave on a free transfer next summer. His frustration is also said to have led him to consider stepping down as the club's captain.

"Marc Guehi didn't get his move and everyone says, 'Great, fantastic.' But what if Liverpool don't come back for him? Or he gets injured, doesn't return to his current level, and never gets the chance to win trophies," Rio Ferdinand added.

"People wonder why players sometimes say, 'No, I need to go.' I think it's just business. Players shouldn't be vilified. The clubs aren't criticised, and it should be a level playing field."

Elsewhere, Liverpool completed the stunning £125 million acquisition of Alexander Isak, a transfer which shattered the British transfer record and came after a summer-long saga marked by the former Newcastle United striker's contentious behaviour.

Isak's desire to force the move was no secret. While some criticised his 'bad boy' approach, Isak's camp maintained that his actions were a last resort to secure a long-awaited dream move.