Following Joelinton’s big money arrival, we’ve reached out to Ronan Murphy to give us the low down on Newcastle’s new club record signing – a Bundesliga expert and football journalist for GOAL.
Here’s what Ronan (@swearimnotpaul) told us about the 22-year-old Brazilian – a player he’s familiar with following his impressive ‘breakout season’ for Hoffenheim:
“Joelinton is an exciting prospect, having had his breakout season in 2018-19 following his return to Hoffenheim.
“He wasn’t expected to be a regular starter but a hat-trick in the cup to start the season earned him a role in Julian Nagelsmann‘s team, where he flourished.”
Murphy on his strengths and weaknesses:
“He’s a quick, direct player who works best in space. Capable of playing anywhere across the frontline, he’s usually more involved in creating than scoring, but that could change if he’s played as a lone striker at Newcastle.
“He still needs to improve his decision-making and finishing to be a complete forward, but he’s still only young so has time to develop.”
Murphy on his ability in front of goal and his work ethic off the ball:
“Newcastle fans shouldn’t expect a haul of goals in his first season as he’s not a clinical finisher or an old-school number 9. A good return would be double digit goals, but he may have an equal number of assists.
“He’s a hard worker and was determined to prove himself on loan in Austria and show his worth to parent club Hoffenheim. He did enough to be considered and then his pre-season hard work paid off. Expect the same at Newcastle.”
Murphy on the £40m transfer fee paid:
“Currently, his transfer fee is a risk for Newcastle.
“They have bought potential returns rather than guaranteed ones, but if he develops into the player many expect him to be, it could turn out to be a bargain.”
Murphy on the number 9 shirt, the Premier League challenge and the pressure on his shoulders:
“I doubt being a record signing or having the #9 shirt will impact his progress or affect him mentally.
“He has the strength to cope with playing in the Premier League and will be a handful for defenders.
“Mentally, he should have no problems adapting either, but fans will have to give him leeway as he’s not going to be an immediate and every game goalscorer.”
A great insight into our new number nine from Ronan, a man who will know Joelinton more than most following his extensive coverage of the Bundesliga.
Keep your eyes peeled for more new pieces and fresh insights on the Brazilian, with us planning to share a Q&A with a Hoffenheim fan in the coming days!
