Martin Dubravka breaks silence after Man Utd loan ended six months early
After his season-long loan spell with Manchester United was cut short earlier than expected, Martin Dubravka expressed gratitude to the club’s supporters.
On January 1, the Slovakian goalkeeper was recalled from his loan stint at Old Trafford by his previous club, Newcastle. He is 33 years old. Although he was loaned to Manchester United in September under a deal that included the possibility of a permanent transfer, Dubravka played in only two EFL Cup matches for the club.
The loan agreement that Dubravka was playing under included a provision that gave the Magpies the right to bring him back in January. As of now, it is anticipated that he will become Nick Pope’s understudy alongside Karl Darlow and Mark Gillespie. This is due to the fact that Loris Karius’ temporary contract expired on January 1st.
“Hi guys, I have been recalled from loan at Manchester United and will return to Newcastle,” Dubravka wrote on Instagram on New Year’s Day. “Although short, it has been an enjoyable experience in Manchester and I wish to sincerely thank all the coaches, staff, players and fans of MUFC for their warmth and support during my loan spell.
“Regarding Newcastle, I have been delighted to see the club make such an impressive start to the season! Newcastle is my home and I will be back to support the squad and the goalkeeping group for the second half of the season
“As always I will give my all to the team and will contribute in any way that I can to hopefully a memorable season. Wishing you all a very happy new year!”
The fact that Dubravka is now back at St. James’ Park reduces Erik ten Hag’s number of available goalkeepers. After Dubravka’s departure, David de Gea, who is 32 years old, is still United’s undisputed first-choice goalkeeper. Tom Heaton, who is 36 years old and a veteran, is expected to take over as United’s No. 2 goalkeeper.
As Heaton is a very capable backup goalkeeper, there is a good chance that Ten Hag will not bring in another goalkeeper during the month of January. The former Burnley stopper is getting close to making 400 club appearances and has three senior caps for England, with one of those coming during the 2016 European Championship.
United has been mentioned in connection with Borussia Monchengladbach goalkeeper Yann Sommer, but it is not anticipated that he will leave the German side in the month of January. The 33-year-old Switzerland international is coming off a contract that will expire at the end of the season and is a target for the summer.
It is currently unknown whether or not Manchester United will be able to recall Dean Henderson from his loan at Nottingham Forest. Even if they are permitted to, it would be unjust to make United’s shot-stopper, who is 25 years old, sit on the team’s bench. This season, he has appeared in 15 of Forest’s 16 Premier League matches for the club.
Dubravka will compete with Darlow for a spot on Newcastle’s bench, and Eddie Howe will be the manager. Former Forest stopper Darlow warmed the bench during the scoreless draw against Leeds on New Year’s Eve; however, following Dubravka’s return, it is possible that Darlow will be released from his contract.
Due to the fact that discussions have taken place, there is also the possibility that Karius will sign another short-term deal with the Magpies. The departure of Karius has not been officially confirmed by Newcastle.
Martin Dubravka breaks silence after Man Utd loan ended six months early
