Emil Krafth will leave Newcastle United this summer, the club have confirmed.
The Sweden international joined Newcastle United from Amiens in the summer of 2019 and made a total of 106 appearances for the club.
While rarely a starter, Krafth was affectionately known as ‘Krafu’ on Tyneside after some standout performances.
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He has not played since November following a knee injury and will never pull on the famous black and white shirt again.
Eddie Howe has issued his verdict on a player who has seen it all on Tyneside.
Howe praises Krafth as Newcastle United departure confirmed
On Saturday morning, a statement was posted on the Newcastle United official website confirming the defender’s imminent departure upon the expiration of his contract at the end of the season.
Howe said: “Emil has embodied what it means to be a Newcastle United player on and off the pitch. He’s been a brilliant servant to the club and he absolutely deserves the send-off that I know he’ll get at St. James’ Park this weekend.
“Emil can be really proud of everything he has achieved here. He’s been a big part of our success over the last few seasons and although he’s been unfortunate with injury of late, he’s played a valuable role behind the scenes with his positive mentality and outstanding professionalism.”
Sporting director Ross Wilson added: “I offer my thanks to Emil for his seven years at Newcastle United and wish him well for the next chapter of his career.
“Emil has faced personal setbacks this season but has shown resilience and dedication throughout, always putting the team before himself.
“It’s clear how respected Emil is by his team-mates, the staff and the supporters, and Sunday’s game gives everyone at St. James’ Park the perfect opportunity to show their appreciation for his contribution to the club.”
Krafth himself said: “I’m so grateful to have had the opportunity to represent this incredible football club for the past seven years. It’s been a huge part of my life, I’ve made some amazing memories here and Newcastle is somewhere I’ve been really proud to call home.”
Emil Krafth’s journey as a Newcastle United player
Howe loved working with Krafth, who joined during the Steve Bruce era before establishing himself as a key player during the first few months after the takeover.
Had it not been for players like Krafth, Newcastle might never have been in a position where reaching the Champions League knock-out stages and the Carabao Cup semi-finals in one season would have been considered a major disappointment.
Injuries have been unkind to him over the years but it would be fair to say that Newcastle got value for money here, given the Swede cost a reported £5million.
There will be a changing of the guard this summer. Krafth and Kieran Trippier are leaving, while there are doubts over the future of Fabian Schar.
It would be too much to suggest Newcastle will miss Krafth all that greatly but the defender’s role in the transformation of the club in recent years is not to be overlooked.
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