‘Once a Geordie, always a Geordie’: Allan Saint-Maximin posts emotional Newcastle United farewell

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – AUGUST 28: Allan Saint-Maximin of Newcastle United celebrates after scoring their sides second goal during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Southampton at St. James Park on August 28, 2021 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)

Allan Saint-Maximin has shared an emotional goodbye message to Newcastle United fans on social media, confirming his exit from the Premier League.

The winger is set to join Saudi Pro League side Al Ahli on a three year deal joining the likes of Edouard Mendy, Roberto Firmino and Riyad Mahrez.

But Saint-Maximin seems to be devastated to be leaving Tyneside, sharing his love for the club and the people and also hinting at a possible return.

Allan Saint-Maximin is expected to complete a move to Al-Ahli.

“4 years ago, I wore the Newcastle jersey for the first time. At that moment, I hadn’t realized that not only was I about to become a Newcastle player, but I was also about to become a Geordie,” he said.“You might think « nice Goodbye message » but the sentiment runs deeper than any words I could say, from the very first months that I met the people of this city, I truly understood them and embraced their unwavering passion, which is why it was so important for me to give my all and if this meant to play injured or even not making statistics, I didn’t give a sh** as long as it would help my team.

“Believe me, I fell for Newcastle, I had great opportunities to leave during dark days, but that was too late I was already in love, I wanted, I needed, I had to stay for helping my team to save the club from Premier League relegation because it meant the world for me.“Of course during those dark days some may have had their doubts, but I always believed in this club and look where we are today, it’s just so beautiful. I’m leaving Newcastle as it should always have been and that’s my greatest trophy because I was a part of it.

“A deep thank you to ALL of you, my team mates, the loyal fans, the staff, the Club, etc… I’ve seen all your messages, thank you and even though this chapter has ended, the story never stops. Newcastle is home now, I’ll continue to be your biggest supporter, I’ll watch every game and as long as the club keeps winning I’ll be the happiest man in the world… and for sure you will see me again 👀“I love you, I love you sincerely, I love you like a Geordie brother. Once a Geordie, always a Geordie 🖤🤍”

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The Frenchman also responded to a tribute posted by NUFC Fans Food Bank, promising to continue his support of the charity.

Allan Saint-Maximin is set to move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli.

“A special player & special person [Saint-Maximin] will be missed on & off the pitch,” the foodbank said. “He messaged to help 2 days after signing for NUFC, visited [the foodbank] after & made everyone’s day, raised awareness & donated money….”

To which Maxi replied: “That’s the least I could do, it’s nothing compared to what you guys are accomplishing. Know that I will still be there for you even tho I’m not in Newcastle anymore.”