“I Just Felt” – Eddie Howe Addresses Miguel Almirón’s Alleged Newcastle United ‘Goodbye’ Gesture

The Paraguayan entered the match in the 88th minute at St Mary’s, prompting the traveling Newcastle fans to chant his name continuously.

At the final whistle, Almirón was ushered toward the sold-out away section by manager Eddie Howe.

In response, Almirón raised his arm and placed his hand on the Newcastle crest, a gesture that followed reports, less than 24 hours before the game, claiming the Magpies had agreed on a fee with Atlanta for the winger.

When asked if this was a farewell gesture, Howe told NewcastleWorld: “Not really. It wasn’t planned. The crowd was embracing him and showing him a lot of love.

Miggy isn’t someone with a big ego who seeks attention, but I felt it was important for him to be at the front and receive that acknowledgment.

“He’s been incredible for us—his attitude, commitment, and performances. I’m not saying it’s a goodbye. We don’t know what will happen, but it was a great moment for him.”

Almirón, who joined Newcastle in January 2019 for a then club-record fee of £21 million, has made 222 appearances and scored 30 goals.

However, he has slipped down the pecking order recently, starting only two Premier League games since March. His last goal came in a 3-0 victory over Fulham in December 2023.