Newcastle United’s list of exciting future prospects is growing, and fans believe they have the next Paul Pogba on the cards.
Since the takeover in 2021, the Magpies have put a much bigger focus on signing young players and developing them through the academy. Some of those signings have even gone on to make their professional debuts under Eddie Howe.
Alex Murphy made his Newcastle United debut in a 4-1 win against Chelsea in 2023 alongside the likes of Michael Ndiweni and Amadou Diallo. Murphy was loaned to Bolton in January, where he played frequently under head coach Steven Schumacher.
Newcastle have become a club that recruits young talent from clubs across England. In 2024, Newcastle signed 16-year-old talent Rory Finneran from Blackburn Rovers. The midfielder has made numerous appearances for the Magpies under-18s this season.
With a plethora of young players coming through the ranks, Newcastle fans believe one 15-year-old wonderkid could be the second coming of Paul Pogba.
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Newcastle United fans compare Sam Alabi to Paul Pogba
At just 15, midfielder Sam Alabi has already made his debut for Newcastle’s under-18s. Signing from National League side Oldham Athletic last summer, Alabi has played 15 games for the young Magpies this season, bagging one assist.
The youngster has done a lot to impress staff within Newcastle’s first-team squad already. In February, Alabi took part in Newcastle’s first-team training, playing alongside big guns like Alexander Isak and Sandro Tonali.
Now, a recent video has surfaced showing a highlight reel of Alabi. Newcastle fans have shared their thoughts on his capabilities.
“Always the player I think about when watching Alabi. It’s those dribbling skills for his height and frame,” said one Newcastle fan, while another added: “A left-footed Pogba. I see it too!”
Another Newcastle fan said: “Looks like a hot prospect.”
“As long as he has the abilities of Pogba but without the bad attitude of Pogba. Brilliant,” said this excited Newcastle supporter.
This Newcastle fan simply said: “Elite.”
Finally, a seventh Newcastle fan said: “Been saying for months that this kid is the Pogba regen.”
Newcastle United youngsters could be involved in pre-season tour
In April, it was confirmed that Newcastle will go on a pre-season tour to Singapore. The Magpies will take on Arsenal at Singapore’s national stadium in July.
While the Arsenal game has been confirmed, the club could still play more games during their tour. Last season saw Newcastle venture out to Japan, where several young players got the chance to play for the first team.
Youngsters like Alfie Harrison and Trevan Sanusi were given the nod by Howe, and it could be the same case for some of the youngsters on their books this summer.
Additionally, Newcastle play Celtic in Glasgow before they jet off to Singapore. The friendly will be the first time the Adidas Trophy is on the line.
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