Newcastle United opinion: Benitez can’t afford to let Ayoze Perez leave

The Daily Mail has reported that Newcastle United star Ayoze Perez is looking for a move back to Spain. While he has been a big part of Rafael Benitez’s squad this season, the 25-year-old has struggled to make an impact over the last six months or so.

That has affected the club, with the Magpies spending a large part of the season in the relegation zone. However, the arrival of Miguel Almiron has changed things for the club and the Paraguayan has added a creative spark that Perez struggled to provide.

This has sparked Perez into action, with him producing 5 goals since the turn of the year. That is almost the double of what he managed in the previous six months, and it shows a change in the Spaniard.

It further showcases why Newcastle United should keep hold of Ayoze Perez in the summer, as it seems he has all that is required in a creative partner. The 25-year-old has struggled when the pressure was solely on his shoulders.

However, as mentioned earlier, Almiron’s presence has changed things in the team. Since the deadline day of the January transfer window, Newcastle United have played seven games and lost only two.

This includes defeats at the hands of Tottenham and West Ham United but barring that, the Magpies have managed three wins and two draws.

It has proved to be a valuable 17 points, as it has pushed them out of the relegation zone.

More importantly, they are way off the relegation zone with eight games left to be played. As mentioned, the likes of Salomon Rondon, Miguel Almiron and Ayoze Perez have proved to be a big part of that surge.

While some may look at both Almiron and Rondon, Perez has played an underrated part among the trio. His work rate and runs off the ball have proved to create space for the other two to do their destructive work.

Moreover, Perez pulls defenders off the ball and that has further allowed Rondon the space to score key goals. This includes strikes against the likes of Manchester City and two in his last two games.

Read more Newcastle United news, click here: Newcastle United latest news

Conclusion

Ayoze Perez is a big part of the team and though he may not score as many goals as he really should be doing, he can improve. The arrival of Miguel Almiron has changed things up for the Magpies and as witnessed, it has changed things for Perez.