Miguel Almiron at Newcastle United: What's gone wrong?
https://www.mlssoccer.com/post/2019/10/26/miguel-almiron-newcastle-united-whats-gone-wrong
Around this time a year ago, Miguel Almiron was busy leading Atlanta United on a playoff run that resulted in an MLS Cup title and the fulfillment of a goal to deliver a championship to a city that made him feel like one of its own.
And the MLS Cup conquest opened the door for Atlanta United to entertain the international interest in Almiron's services. The winning bid belonged to Premier League side Newcastle United, which broke its own transfer record (which had stood for well over a decade) to do the deal in January. The reported $27 million fee received by Atlanta United was the largest in MLS history.
The deal represented a landmark moment and Almiron was equally enthused, describing his move as “something beautiful.” And the excitement surrounding Almiron’s arrival was palpable among the Newcastle faithful.
The Paraguayan international made his home debut in late-February against Huddersfield Town and was a width of a post away from his first goal when a chipped effort clipped the woodwork. Almiron’s season ended early due to a hamstring injury, but during the 10 games he featured for Newcastle the club maintained good form: winning five games, tying two, and losing three.
Despite failing to record a goal or assist during that period, his impact was undeniable.
Against Bournemouth, he earned a free kick that produced Newcastle’s opener. Showcasing the type of devastating speed and control in transition that under the high-octane system implemented by Tata Martino propelled Atlanta to MLS Cup, the Paraguayan had run some 60 yards from the edge of Newcastle’s box before eventually being fouled.
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