Newcastle United have awoken as a sleeping giant of the English game. However, higher standards have come at the cost of playing time for some of their squad members. Indeed, Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that one of their beloved players, Miguel Almirón, will be moving back to Atlanta United.
Miguel Almirón Set to Move Back to Atlanta
Almirón Ready for Return to Atlanta
Romano reported that Almirón will be ending his time as a player in the Premier League. He plans to part ways with Newcastle and return to his former MLS club for a fee of around £9.6 million.
All parties have put together a verbal agreement and Paraguayan is set to sign a four-and-a-half-year contract. He will now travel to the USA to complete a medical before the transfer is fully complete.
Read more: What Newcastle United Need to Do This January Transfer Window
This deal brings an end to Almirón’s six-year spell in north-east England. The winger was the club’s record signing for a fee of £21 million at the start of 2019, but he has never been a talismanic figure.
He memorably exploded into life during the 2022/23 season, scoring 11 goals on the way to a fourth-placed finish and qualification for the UEFA Champions League. However, he has regressed to the mean in the last two years and has not scored a single goal since the start of the current campaign.
No Bad Blood Between Almirón and the Geordies
However, his attitude has always been exemplary. Eddie Howe, manager of the team, gave him a glowing character reference in his pre-match press interview before a 3-1 win against Southampton.
According to the BBC, Howe said: “Miggy’s head has been very solidly here. We love him to bits, he’s got great energy and character that’s never changed for a second – he’s been the ultimate professional.”
The manager also allowed Almirón to say goodbye to the fans with a heartfelt gesture at St. Mary’s.
With the three points in the bag, Howe sent on Almirón from the bench in the 88th minute. The traveling fans serenaded his entry to the pitch with chants, and after the final whistle, he lapped up more adulation from the supporters. Almirón acknowledged the fond farewell, raising his arms in response to applause before tapping the club crest one last time. He departs Tyneside on good terms.
