There were high expectations when Joelinton joined Newcastle United.
He arrived for a club record fee and was given the number nine shirt – a bit like Alan Shearer back in 1996.
But Newcastle weren’t signing the second coming of the Premier League’s greatest ever goalscorer. Instead, they were bringing in a relatively unknown Brazilian who’s goal record left a lot to be desired.
That goal record didn’t improve much in his debut season. Joelinton scored just two Premier League goals. The season after, he found the net four times in the league.
He doubled his return, but that was no reason to celebrate. He was still struggling on the whole, looking nothing like a £40million player.
In the summer he lost the number nine shirt, with the heavy jersey handed to Callum Wilson, who has thrived rather than crumbled under the pressure.
Moving to a new country. Being stuck there during a global pandemic. Struggling on the pitch amid a massive fee and a famous number on your back. It would be easy for Joelinton to wonder if he made the right decision.
More to come from Joelinton
But according to the Athletic, that is not the case. They claim that the 25-year-old has no regrets about joining the Magpies and expects to achieve more in the North East.
That’s a real possibility given what has happened over the past couple of months.
The takeover has changed the mood around the club. We now have ambitious owners who want the club to achieve its potential.
And now we’ve got a manager who has the same attitude, and has big plans for Joelinton.
Eddie Howe’s arrival has rejuvenated the Toon number seven. He scored in Howe’s first game, and it was actually his first Premier League goal in front of a packed out St James’ Park.
The strong performances have continued, with Joelinton’s pressing and physical prowess suiting Howe’s style perfectly.
The new manager is a big fan of Joelinton. He’s waxed lyrical about him to the press, and even mentioned him during his interview to get the job. That speaks volumes about Joelinton’s potential.
Here’s hoping he can achieve it under Howe. The early signs are promising.
Receive a digest of our best Newcastle content each week direct to your mailbox
