Former Newcastle United goalkeeper Tim Krul has made an official decision about his future.
The Dutchman has been a free agent since the end of the 2024/25 season, having been released by Luton Town after two years.
Krul jokingly offered himself to Manchester United recently amid their goalkeeping problems, but has now decided what his next move will be.
At the age of 37, the veteran goalkeeper has confirmed on social media that he is retiring from professional football.
Tim Krul announces his retirement
On Tuesday evening, the former Newcastle United stopper took to social media to post an emotional statement, confirming that he is hanging up his gloves after a 19 year-long career.
Having made his debut for Newcastle United at the age of 18, Krul has now decided to call time on his career.
“As I hang up my gloves after 20 incredible years as a professional football player, I want to take a moment to reflect on my journey,” he wrote on Instagram.
“From joining Newcastle as a 17 year old boy, to representing Holland on the international stage. I have truly lived the dream I had as a young boy every match, every training session, and every rollercoaster moment has shaped me into who I am today.
“Thank you to the clubs, coaches, team mates, my beautiful family, and most importantly you fans for your support throughout my career. I am excited for the next chapter and will always cherish the memories made on the pitch. Here’s to new adventures off the pitch! Thank you, Tim Krul.”
Following his announcement, Krul was inundated with messages from former teammates, including players from his days at St James’ Park.
Andros Townsend commented: “Unreal career Tim.”
Siem de Jong added: “Legend.”
His brother Luuk de Jong also commented, writing: “What an amazing career. Good luck with everything that’s coming.”
There were also responses from Dwight Gayle and Vurnon Anita, plus current Newcastle United player and fellow Dutchman Sven Botman.
Newcastle United looked to re-sign Tim Krul this summer
Krul joined Newcastle United as a teenager in 2005, making his debut just over a year later in the UEFA Cup.
He would go on to make 184 appearances for the Magpies before leaving in 2017. Krul’s most memorable appearance for Newcastle was at White Hart Lane in 2013.
Alan Pardew’s side beat Tottenham Hotspur 1-0, with Krul making 14 saves to preserve his clean sheet. No goalkeeper has ever made more saves in a Premier League game.
Krul also enjoyed a lengthy spell at Norwich City, where he made 169 appearances in total before moving to Luton Town.
After making just six appearances across two seasons, Krul was released this summer before interestingly being linked with a return to St James’ Park.
Newcastle United were in the market for a backup goalkeeper, while Eddie Howe was also looking for homegrown players to boost his Champions League squad. Krul was an option for Newcastle United, alongside Fraser Forster.
Ultimately, neither player returned to Tyneside.
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