Newcastle United Confirm Signing of Federico Fernandez

Federico Fernandez to Newcastle Confirmed

The move to Newcastle reunites Fernández with his former Napoli manager Rafa Benitez who he played for during the 2013/14 season. The season proved to be the best of Fernández’ three-year career with the Italian club, making 36 appearances in all competitions for The Blues.

Following his departure from Napoli during the Summer of 2014, Fernández made a whopping 126-appearances for the Swans during his four-year stretch with the club. Following Swansea’s relegation at the end of last season, Fernández was one of the club’s many players hoping to leave the club before the end of the transfer window.

Now, the 29-year-old centre-back will get his move back to the Premier League. Even if the transfer did take until the dying embers of the window.

Speaking upon his arrival at Newcastle United, Fernández said, “It was a long day but I’m really happy to be here. It’s a new challenge in my life and I’m very excited to meet all the players and staff here.”

Also speaking following his arrival was manager Rafa Benitez. “I know Federico well from our time together at Napoli and it was an easy decision to bring him here. He has experience, a very good professional and he will add competition in defence.”

There will be plenty of competition in the heart of Newcastle’s defence. Fernandez joins a talented defence including fellow new-signing Fabian Schar as well as the old guard. Jamaal Lascelles and Ciaran Clark will also vie for a place in the Magpies starting XI.

However, given his arrival came extremely late in the transfer window, Fernández will likely not be expected to appear in Newcastle’s first match this Saturday at Tottenham.