I only signed for Tottenham because I was forced out of Newcastle

David Ginola, a Premier League icon, has vivid memories of his bittersweet departure from Newcastle United, a club he never wanted to leave.

The French winger, who joined Newcastle from Paris Saint-Germain in 1995, quickly became a key figure in Kevin Keegan’s renowned “Entertainers” squad. Despite his memorable stint in the North East, Ginola’s time at St James’ Park lasted just two seasons before circumstances forced his exit.

Ginola’s departure from Newcastle was largely shaped by a managerial change. When Kenny Dalglish replaced Kevin Keegan, the dynamic of the team shifted dramatically, and tensions between the player and his new manager grew.

In a candid reflection shared in The Entertainers, a book chronicling that era of Newcastle’s history, Ginola revealed his frustration with Dalglish’s approach. According to Ginola, Dalglish seemed determined to overhaul the team by offloading the foreign players brought in under Keegan, which included the talented winger.

Recalling his time under Dalglish, Ginola admitted the relationship quickly soured. He explained that disagreements with the manager, coupled with limited playing opportunities, made his position untenable.

Ginola described a heated confrontation with Dalglish that encapsulated their fraught relationship. He had expressed his discontent publicly, leading to a tense exchange in which Ginola accused Dalglish of treating him as though he had committed a personal betrayal.

Ginola felt alienated, remarking that Dalglish never looked at or engaged with him. Reflecting on that period, he expressed disappointment that the new manager failed to harness the potential of a squad brimming with talent, believing Dalglish wasn’t the right person to take Newcastle to the next level.

Under Keegan’s leadership, Ginola had experienced a different atmosphere entirely. He fondly remembered the joy of training sessions and matchdays, both at St James’ Park and on the road.

The passion and energy of Newcastle’s supporters left a lasting impression on him. For Ginola, his time under Keegan was a golden period, and he still yearns for those happier days to return to the club.

After leaving Newcastle, Ginola joined Tottenham Hotspur, where he enjoyed a successful spell. His time at Spurs was marked by individual accolades and team achievements, cementing his legacy in English football.

In 1999, he was named both PFA Players’ Player of the Year and FWA Footballer of the Year, reflecting the impact he made on the pitch. That same season, Tottenham won the League Cup, adding a trophy to Ginola’s list of accomplishments during his career in North London.

Interestingly, Ginola’s path to Newcastle might have taken a different turn had he accepted a last-minute offer from Arsenal. In a 2021 interview with FourFourTwo, he revealed how close he came to joining the Gunners before his move to the Magpies.

After giving his word to Terry McDermott at Newcastle, Ginola received a late-night call from Arsenal’s David Dein, who expressed interest in signing him. Despite the allure of Arsenal’s status as one of the biggest clubs in England, Ginola chose to honor his commitment to Newcastle.

The decision was influenced not only by his promise but also by the prospect of working with Keegan, a factor that delighted his father when he shared the news.

Looking back, Ginola acknowledged that his decision might have been different had the timing of Arsenal’s approach been earlier. At the time, Newcastle were still establishing themselves in the Premier League after their promotion from the First Division.

Arsenal, by contrast, were already a powerhouse in English football. Yet, the opportunity to join Keegan’s ambitious project at Newcastle ultimately proved too enticing to resist.

Ginola’s story is a testament to his integrity and his love for the game. While his time at Newcastle ended prematurely, his contributions to the club during his brief stay remain fondly remembered by fans.

His talent, flair, and charisma made him a fan favorite, and his performances were a key part of an era that still holds a special place in the hearts of Newcastle supporters.

The transition from Newcastle to Tottenham marked the next chapter of Ginola’s career, one where he continued to showcase his skills at the highest level. His ability to adapt and thrive under different managers and playing styles underscored his versatility as a player. At Spurs, he became a symbol of creativity and passion, attributes that endeared him to the club’s faithful supporters.

David Ginola’s journey through English football is a story of highs and lows, triumphs and challenges. From the exhilarating days with Newcastle’s “Entertainers” to the individual glory and team success at Tottenham, his legacy is one of undeniable impact.

While he may have been forced to leave Newcastle against his will, Ginola’s love for the club and its fans remains evident. His memories of those happy days at St James’ Park continue to resonate, a reminder of a time when the Magpies were a force to be reckoned with in the Premier League.

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