If Diego Simeone had got his wish, Kieran Trippier would not have joined Newcastle United in January.
The 32-year-old was the first player to sign for the Magpies after the change of ownership, agreeing a £12million move to St James’ Park at the start of the year.
It was a real coup at the time, and it has proven to be one of the best signings Newcastle have ever made. Trippier has been immense in black and white, and has admitted that he is now playing the best football of his career.
That is a big statement given the high level he has played at, including in recent years when he was in Spain. Trippier spent two-and-a-half years with Atletico Madrid, where he won La Liga and became a firm favourite of manager Simeone.
But the right-back decided that it was time to return to England, leading to his move to Newcastle in January 2022.
However, he could have stayed at Atletico. And that is exactly what Simeone wanted him to do.
What Simeone said to Trippier just before he joined Newcastle
Speaking on the Under The Cosh podcast, Trippier discussed his exit from Atletico Madrid, and shared a conversation he had with Simeone moments before leaving.
“Yeah, even the day when I said bye to the lads and stuff, he tried having another conversation with me in the car park,” Trippier said.
“He basically said he didn’t want me to leave. He understands my reasons why, but doesn’t want me to go.
“It was really nice to hear it from him, how much he wanted me to stay coming from someone like him.
“Even then I was having moments, even on the way to the airport, but I had made my mind up that I needed to come back to England.”
Atletico’s loss has been Newcastle’s gain
Given how well he has played, it’s no surprise that Simeone wanted to keep Trippier. He is the ultimate professional, and a damn good footballer too.
But Trippier’s desire to return to England took precedent, and allowed Newcastle to complete one of the best deals in their history.
The impact he has had at St James’ Park has been seismic. He isn’t here for a payday to wind down his career. He’s here to improve standards and make a difference.
Trippier has certainly done that, and is absolutely adored by the Toon Army. And he must be an absolute dream to play with. We’ve seen Ryan Fraser and Miguel Almiron excel down the right with him playing behind.
Simeone tried his best to keep Trippier in Spain, but his mind was made up, and now Newcastle are reaping the benefits of that decision.
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