Why Kenedy Could Prove To Be A Good Signing For Newcastle United
According to reports from the Mirror, Newcastle United have snapped up Chelsea youngster Kenedy on a season-long loan. Manager Rafael Benitez has reached out to his contacts at the Stamford Bridge, from his days as the club’s interim manager, in order to get a deal pushed through for the Brazilian, the reports claim.
The 21-year old has had a tough spell in West London, since his move back in 2015. In his first season with the Blues, the Brazilian made 20 appearances, scoring twice and registering a single assist. Last season, he was loaned out to fellow Premier League side Watford, but he endured a poor spell largely due to injuries and was called back in January, after just 15 minutes of Premier League action. He did appear for the Premier League champions in their penultimate game of the season.
Kenedy created further controversy on Chelsea’s pre-season tour of China due to some ill-advised social media posts, following which he was fined by the club and sent back home midway through the tour. Despite all the negativity surrounding the player, Benitez has decided to trust his instincts and has gone ahead with a move for the Brazilian.
It seems like the risk could pay great dividends for the club. In spite of all the recent news due to his off the pitch actions, Kenedy remains an immensely talented youngster with loads of unfulfilled potential. The 21-year old, primarily a left-sided winger, can play anywhere on the left flank, be it as a wingback or as a left-back, giving great options to the manager. With Benitez lacking a proper backup for first-choice left-back Paul Dummett, Kenedy is someone who will be able to challenge the Welshman and push him for a place in the line-up.
He would also add a spunk in the forward line, with his blistering pace and flair when on the ball. He can whip the ball in from wide areas or have a go at the goal himself. He would give the likes of Christian Atsu and Jacob Murphy some added competition as well. Add to that, Kenedy has also been used down the right-hand side and as a centre-forward on a number of occasions throughout his career, making him a great asset to have in the ranks.
Most importantly though, after a poor two-year stint in England and the controversies that happened recently, the player himself will come in with a point to prove to his detractors, and will be extra motivated and driven to perform in the Premier League.
It might be a gamble that Newcastle are taking by signing Kenedy, but given that they will be bringing him on loan and not on a permanent deal, it would mean there will be considerably lesser investment. And if the Brazil U-23 international hits the ground running and starts fulfilling his potential, then the Magpies will have gotten their hands on an extremely talented player who will certainly make a difference.