Leading the attack for Polish champions Lech Poznań, Ishak has delivered decisive goals on the European stage, marking one of the most significant individual achievements by an Assyrian footballer in modern continental competition.
Born in Sweden to Assyrian parents from Gozarto in Syrian Assyria, Ishak’s football journey began at Assyriska FF, the Assyrian-founded club in Södertälje, Sweden, that has long served as a pathway for Assyrian talent in Europe. It was there that he developed the foundations of his game, making his first-team debut in 2010 at just 17 years of age in Sweden’s second tier, the Superettan.
In December 2011, after impressing in Sweden, Ishak signed with German Bundesliga side 1. FC Köln following a successful trial. He made 19 appearances for the club before moving to Italy in August 2013, signing for Parma in Serie A after a brief loan spell at Swiss club FC St. Gallen.
His career continued across Europe with Randers FC in Denmark, where he established himself as a reliable striker in the Danish Superliga, before taking the next step to 1. FC Nürnberg in Germany. Competing in both the Bundesliga and 2. Bundesliga, Ishak gained valuable experience in one of Europe’s most demanding football environments.
Success at Lech Poznań
Ishak’s career reached new heights following his move to Lech Poznań in 2020. Quickly becoming a central figure at the club, he was later appointed captain, a testament to his leadership and professionalism. During his tenure, Lech Poznań secured the Ekstraklasa title, with Ishak continuing to deliver consistently at the highest level both domestically and in European competition. He is currently the second all-time top goalscorer in Lech Poznań’s history, and the top foreign goal scorer, firmly establishing himself as a fan favourite.
International Success with Sweden
Alongside his club achievements, Ishak has represented Sweden on the international stage. He was part of Sweden’s Under-21 side that won the 2015 UEFA European Under-21 Championship, one of the nation’s greatest youth football achievements. He also represented Sweden at the 2016 Olympic Games, scoring against Colombia in a 2–2 draw.
Ishak later earned caps for the Swedish senior national team, further underlining the level he has reached throughout a career defined by perseverance and consistency. He joins Jimmy Durmaz and Nahir Besara as two other Assyrians who have represented Sweden in international football.
