At this point last year, Newcastle United’s goalkeeper, Martin Dubravka, found himself on loan at Manchester United. Looking back, Dubravka has no regrets about his decision to join Manchester United on loan at the beginning of the previous season. During the same summer that Newcastle acquired Nick Pope from Burnley, the Slovakian actively sought a move to Old Trafford. While the arrangement included an option to buy, Dubravka ended his loan prematurely and returned to the Magpies in January after making only two appearances.
With Nick Pope solidifying his position as United’s No.1, Dubravka had seen limited action, making just four appearances upon his return, before Pope suffered a shoulder injury earlier this month. Following Pope’s surgery and expected absence until April, Dubravka has started every game (five) since, aiming to dispel any notions that Newcastle needs to sign a goalkeeper in January.
When asked about his return to Newcastle and playing again, Dubravka expressed, “I didn’t know. I said many times I only went there because it was a bigger chance for me to play. I can understand why some of the fans might think I jumped, but I felt at the time I needed to go there. I don’t regret any of my decisions. I learned a lot from that move, but it’s good to be back.”
Dubravka, who has spent five and a half years at Newcastle and considers it home, emphasized the special connection with the city and club, especially since his son was born there. He expressed his joy at being back on the pitch. Despite conceding nine goals in three consecutive defeats, Dubravka kept a clean sheet in a recent 3-0 win over Fulham at St James’ Park.
In a near miss at Chelsea, where he was moments away from securing a second clean sheet in four days, Dubravka credited Kieran Trippier’s mistake for denying him. Despite Newcastle facing challenges with 11 injured players, Dubravka acknowledged the tough period but highlighted the importance of a strong bench. He noted the necessity of readiness when unexpectedly called upon, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to be on the pitch.
Dubravka, acknowledging the challenging circumstances, stated, “It’s been a long time since I’ve been playing on a regular basis. I have to work on myself, keep going, and train well, hoping to demonstrate that I deserve a chance and contribute to winning some matches.”