Javier Manquillo first start for 20 months helps Rafa Benitez and Celta Vigo to stunning victory

4 months ago 16
ARTICLE AD

 
 
 
 
 
 

Javier Manquillo had last started a league match back on 3 April 2022.

That game 20 months ago a 5-1 defeat for Newcastle United at Tottenham.

Sunday saw Javier Manquillo at last back on the pitch after a frustrating later stages of his Newcastle career affected by injury, as well as the much needed investment in the transfer market after Mike Ashley finally left.

Celta Vigo went into this weekend only outside the relegation zone only on goal difference, having won only three of their opening 22 La Liga matches, all by a one goal winning margin.

Javier Manquillo started at right wing-back, Celta Vigo away to Osasuna.

A stunning 3-0 away win followed and Celta Vigo suddenly putting three points valuable daylight between themselves and the drop zone.

Good luck to Javier Manquillo and Rafa Benitez, two great characters who always did their best for Newcastle United.

The Mag report – 26 January 2024:

Javier Manquillo left Newcastle United on Sunday.

The now 29 year old joining Celta Vigo.

Javier Manquillo was signed by Rafa Benitez back in summer 2018 and has been a really good servant to Newcastle United.

Now five and a half years later, the Spanish defender reunited with his former NUFC manager.

Speaking to the media in Spain about the move, Javier Manquillo has caused controversy.

When asked about any differences between La Liga and the Premier League, Manquillo declaring:

“There is a difference…

“The Premier League is a step above La Liga!”

Less controversial, was when Javier Manquillo was asked about reuniting with Rafa Benitez:

“I was with him at Newcastle and I know he’s a great coach.

“[Celta Vigo Director of Football] Marco [Garces] and Rafa [Benitez] convinced me.

“It was a very easy decision.

“I know that I am coming to a historic club in their centenary year, I’m very excited to be here.”

Javier Manquillo could make his debut on Sunday in a massive tough match.

Celta Vigo are only two points above the relegation zone and are at home to shock league leaders Girona.

Celta Vigo official Javier Manquillo statement – 21 January 2024:

‘RC Celta already has its second signing of the winter market: Javier Manquillo. The Madrid native (Chinchón, May 5, 1994), who returns to LaLiga after a 6-year career in the Premier League, joins the celestial team, after leaving Newcastle, with a contract until June 30, 2025.

Manquillo, international with the U-21 and European champion with the U-19, began his professional career at Atlético de Madrid. He jumped to the rojiblanco first team in the 12/13 season where he contributed to winning the Copa del Rey. After his time in LaLiga, he embarked on the adventure of English football, where he accumulated nearly 8,000 minutes in 110 games with Newcastle, scoring a goal and providing 7 assists. In addition to “the magpies”, the right-back has also gained experience at Liverpool, Sunderland and Olympique de Marseille, where he played 43 games.

The arrival of Manquillo fulfills RC Celta’s objective of strengthening the XI with a side that will provide experience, speed and great technical conditions.’


 
Read Entire Article