NUFC new boy Santiago Munoz has revealed he’s ready to ‘fight’ for a first-team place at St James’ Park, insisting his ‘different mentality’ and sense of ‘calm’ will help him be a hit in the Premier League.
The 19-year-old striker posted a photo of him boarding a flight to the UK on Saturday, stating ‘The European dream begins’ – a clear sign he was on his way to Tyneside after completing a deadline day move.
The deal itself is an initial 18-month loan move which includes an option to buy. He’s expected to initially link up with the club’s U23 set up, however it seems he already has one eye on impressing Steve Bruce.
Here’s what he told ESPN Deportes when asked about his route towards first-team football:
“I have to do my thing, trust me and my process. It has been fast.
“It’s 18 months [on loan], but I’m going to enjoy it.
“This is a dream that I know is possible.
“I’m not under pressure, I have a different mentality, I’m calm.
“I have talked to people from Newcastle, but this is not an excuse for not fighting for a place in the Premier League.”
Some have questioned whether this is more of a PR stunt from the club given his inevitable links to fictional ‘GOAL’ star Santigao Munez, yet The Chronicle insist he arrives as a highly-rated talent scouted extensively by Steve Nickson.
Not only has he racked up three caps for Mexico’s U23 side, he was involved in six goals (three goals and three assists) in 11 starts for Liga MX side Santos Laguna last season.
Let’s hope he settles into life on Tyneside and is soon knocking on Steve Bruce’s door for a shot at first-team level.
I think there’s more to this lads recruitment than meets the eye.
He’s played senior level in the top league in Mexico, so it makes no sense to assume that we’re bringing him here to play U23s.
Assuming it’s not just a joke PR stunt – which I’m guessing it’s not, why would they bother sending Nickson to watch him if it was – I’d expect him to quickly make it onto the bench as a backup striker.
Bruce and co are playing it down for the moment, until they get a good look at him in training.
Just wait until the news gets out that he changed his name……
Helen Clarey(Quote)