It has been a remarkable few months for former Newcastle United forward Ayoze Perez.
The 31-year-old was one of three former Newcastle United players that tasted international glory during the summer, as Spain went the distance and won Euro 2024. They even beat England in the final, winning 2-1 in Berlin.
Ayoze Perez was joined in the Spain squad by Mikel Merino and Joselu, three players who played for Newcastle United under Rafa Benitez. Seeing them win a major international tournament was remarkable – especially Perez and Joselu.
Interestingly, all three of them have changed clubs this summer. Merino has joined Arsenal, as he awaits his St James’ Park return in November. Meanwhile, Joselu is now playing for Al-Gharafa in Qatar.
As for Ayoze, he is still in Spain, representing Villarreal in La Liga.
Ayoze Perez is on fire for Villarreal
The attacker swapped Real Betis for Villarreal this summer, with the Yellow Submarine activating his £3.4million release clause.
It was a bargain deal, and Perez is already proving his worth.
The attacker has made five La Liga appearances for Villarreal this season, playing a key role in their fantastic start. Villarreal are currently fourth in the league with 11 points, which is the same amount as Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid.
And Villarreal can thank Perez for five seven of those points.
He has already scored three times for his new club, and each goal was decisive. Perez netted winners against Sevilla and RCD Mallorca, while he also provided an equaliser in a draw with Valencia.
His goals turned two draws into two wins, and one loss into one draw. It truly has been a remarkable start for him at Villarreal, just months after a career high of lifting the European Championship.
Another former Newcastle United forward not doing quite as well
While Perez is flying for Villarreal, Joselu is not doing quite as well.
After the highs of a La Liga and Champions League double with Real Madrid followed by a Euro 2024 triumph, Joselu is struggling to find the net at his new club.
He has made six appearances for Al-Gharafa, but is yet to open his account.
As for Mikel Merino, he is still waiting to make his Arsenal debut after suffering a shoulder injury immediately after joining the Gunners from Real Sociedad. In fact, Merino is in a race against time to be ready to face Newcastle on November 2nd.
Receive a digest of our best Newcastle content each week direct to your mailbox
