The midfielder thinks he is proud of himself for turning down a transfer to Newcastle.
Withc Newastle’s current form, it’s tough to imagine any player passing up the opportunity to wow the fans at St. James’ Park.
After years of struggle under Mike Ashley’s ownership and Steve Bruce’s first-team management, the club is flourishing thanks to the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) and Eddie Howe.
Newcastle last won a major prize, excluding the Championship, in the 1969 Inter-Cities Fairs Cup, and last enjoyed domestic glory in the 1955 FA Cup.
Not Malcolm McDonald, Alan Shearer, or Kevin Keegan (the latter as both a player and manager) could deliver the long-suffering Geordies any more success.
However, there appears to be a genuine sense in the city that this may be Newcastle’s year.
Al Ahli’s 21-year-old midfielder Gabri Veiga, on the other hand, will not be part of any success story.
MARCA had him pegged as a potential summer acquisition for the Magpies, but the former Celta Vigo star, maybe surprisingly, chose the Saudi Pro League over the English Premier League.
He is, nonetheless, very satisfied with his decision.
“I did not join Saudi just for the money,” he told El Larguero (h/t Geordie Boot Boys).
“It was the best option for me to develop as a player, grow under a young coach, join a team full of stars, and play in an improving league like the Saudi Pro League.” “I am completely satisfied with my decision.”
If the player is content, it is difficult to criticize his decision; yet, there is no comparison between the Saudi Pro League and the Champions League.