The Atletico Madrid player who made an impression during his “audition” at St. James’ Park versus Newcastle United
The Magpies, who were defending the Sela Cup after winning it the two years prior, should have had a great day. Unfortunately, against Atletico Madrid, who were a step up from Newcastle United, who were without some of their best players, Eddie Howe’s team played a poor second half.
With their loss to Atletico Madrid, Newcastle has lost all of their preseason games, which is concerning going into a crucial 2025–2026 season. Newcastle also played Espanyol at St. James’ Park on Friday, and the game ended 2-2 thanks to a late goal from former Middlesbrough player Kike Garcia. During the two games, fans saw fresh players including Aaron Ramsdale, Anthony Elanga, and Seung-soo Park; the latter stood out among them.
Although Newcastle’s scouts may have had their eye on a player who was recently linked to a move this summer, the Atletico game was a fantastic chance to watch elite players like Antoine Griezmann and Julian Alvarez in action in the North East. Conor Gallagher, a midfielder for Atletico, unexpectedly moved to Spain last summer after losing favour at Chelsea. With six goal involvements in his debut season in La Liga, the England international performed admirably, but sources from Spain indicate he may soon be returning home.
Newcastle is still searching for a replacement in the middle of the park after selling Sean Longstaff to Leeds United for £15 million last month. Newcastle is interested in acquiring Gallagher to replace Longstaff, according to reports from Spain in July. The 25-year-old, who paid £34 million to join Atletico last summer, is being considered by the Magpies for a summer transfer. Gallagher might only cost £36 million, and Atletico is apparently eager to let him go after only a year in Spain. Newcastle supporters were eager to sign Gallagher after learning of the news because of his inventiveness. If a move does materialise, Gallagher might have just participated in his St. James’ Park audition without realising it.
Even though Gallagher has previously performed at St. James’ Park, the atmosphere was entirely different when he and Atletico came on Saturday. Had it not been for Kieran Trippier of Newcastle, Gallagher might not have found himself in Spain. Trippier reportedly persuaded Gallagher to sign with Atletico by telling him how much he loved his time there in 2024. At full time, Trippier was spotted hugging manager Diego Simeone and Atletico players including Koke. The 34-year-old was undoubtedly enjoying a pleasant reunion with his old teammates.
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