Miguel Almiron: MLS is improving, sees his transfer fee as an “honor”.

Miguel Almiron was introduced by Newcastle United today, and spoke with the media for the first time since his $27 million dollar, record-breaking transfer from Atlanta United to the Premier League side.

Almiron, who played a critical part in Atlanta United’s MLS championship season last year, answered questions with the media today, his first time as a Newcastle player.

“I’m really grateful for the way I’ve been welcomed by the supporters here. I really can’t wait for the moment when I can turn out for the side here at home,” Almiron said to the media on Wednesday morning.

Almiron’s transfer to Newcastle last week, became the largest transfer fee paid for an MLS player, beating the fee Bayern Munich paid for Vancouver Whitecaps teenage-star, Alphonso Davies (fee could rise to $22 million), a mere five months ago.

Miggy joined the Five Stripes for a fee of $8 million dollars from Club Athletico Lanus (Argentine Primera Division) just before their inaugural season in the MLS. He would go on to play in 62 games in his two seasons in Atlanta, adding 21 goals and 28 assists.

Miguel was also named 2017 MLS Newcomer of the Year, was a 2-time All-Star, 2-time MLS Best XI selection and a 2018 MLS Champion.

“I think for some time now the MLS has been improving. Every year you see more and more quality players come in. I think it’s a good sign and a positive thing for that league,” said Almiron when asked about the current state of the MLS after his departure.

For Newcastle, the move for Almiron now ranks ahead of the $15 million dollar move for Michael Owen from Real Madrid in 2005 as the clubs most expensive transfer. Newcastle currently are only two points above the relegation zone (24 PTS from 25 games), so Almiron is expected to make a large impact on the squad as the season progresses towards its end.First and foremost I see it as an honor,” Almiron said.

“First and foremost, I see it as an honor. It’s something that I try not to pay too much attention to. It’s something that is secondary when it’s compared to me helping the team. I want to bring something,” Miggy said when asked about being the record signing and record transfer fee for two clubs.

Miggy acknowledged the jump from the MLS to the Premier League, but, to no surprise, he seems capable and up to the challenge.

“There are big differences between the two leagues… and it’s a tougher league to play in. But I think with the help of my teammates in training and the manager, it’s something I think I’ll cope with, and they’ll help me along the way.”

https://twitter.com/NUFC/status/1090984143146676230

Miguel Almiron and Newcastle United travel to play Wolves on Monday in search of a result that can help further themselves from the dreaded relegation zone, it will be interesting to see if Miguel Almiron will be named in the squad and if we will see his debut. Keep a look out on Monday.

• Published on 02/08/2019 at 8:56 PM EST
• Last updated on 02/08/2019 at 8:56 PM EST