Steve Bruce made a bold prediction on how Joelinton would fare at Newcastle United upon signing him, and he has been proven correct, though not in the way he expected.
Joelinton signed for Newcastle United six years ago in the summer of 2019, becoming the club’s then-record signing in a £40m move from Hoffenheim.
The Brazilian arrived at St. James Park at a tumultuous time in the immediate aftermath of Steve Bruce being hired amid severe backlash.
Joelinton had been heavily linked with Newcastle while Rafa Benitez was still at the helm, though it appeared the Spaniard wasn’t too keen on spending so much of his budget on him and wanted to keep Salomon Rondon instead.
That was likely just one of the disagreements with Mike Ashley that led to Benitez’s controversial departure and the appointment of Bruce.
Signed as the shining light of hope in a dark time, a lot of pressure was immediately put on Joelinton’s shoulders, made even more intense when he picked out the No.9 shirt.
Bruce admired that from Joelinton and predicted he would go on to become a ‘big favourite’ with Newcastle fans.
He was eventually proven correct, but it certainly didn’t happen as he thought it would.
What Steve Bruce said after signing Joelinton in 2019
Upon the announcement of Joelinton’s signing, Bruce told Newcastle’s official website: “The kid’s got an exciting time ahead of him.
“He’s a smashing young player and we’re obviously delighted to get him. It’s been going on for a little bit now, so to get him is great for everybody.
“He’s got everything that a modern-day player wants. He’s big, strong and athletic, and of course, he’s got age on his side too, which is vitally important.
“He’s learned the history and wanted it (the number nine shirt), and that’s always a big shirt to fill. But in his eyes, it was ‘bring it on – it’s what I’m here for’.
“He’s risen to that challenge, and I’m sure he will be a big, big favourite of the supporters. He’s got an incredible work-rate about him, he’s got a really good humility about him, and all the attributes a top striker needs.”
Joelinton did become beloved by supporters, but it was a long, winding road and wouldn’t have happened without Eddie Howe.
Joelinton was initially a laughing stock at Newcastle and considered a massive flop, as he struggled to be the lead striker and live up to the legacy of No.9.
It wasn’t until Howe replaced Bruce and shifted Joelinton from a striker to a combative, all-action midfielder did his fantastic qualities shine through.
Howe spotted that potential in Joelinton and he helped turn his Newcastle career around. Six years on, Joelinton one of the side’s most important players.
Joelinton’s first words as a Newcastle United player
Joelinton’s first words as a Newcastle player were: “I’m really happy to be here.
“I know it’s a large investment that the club has made in me, and that comes with a huge responsibility.
“I’m highly motivated and hope to give back on the pitch.”
He has certainly given it all back and repaid his transfer fee ten times over.
Joelinton played a crucial role in Newcastle’s Carabao Cup triumph, their first trophy win in decades, and securing a return to the Champions League.
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