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2017-18 Newcastle United player review: Mohamed Diame

By Carson A Merk

LONDON, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 04: Mohamed Diame of Newcastle United celebrates after scoring his sides first goal during the Premier League match between Crystal Palace and Newcastle United at Selhurst Park on February 4, 2018 in London, England. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 04: Mohamed Diame of Newcastle United celebrates after scoring his sides first goal during the Premier League match between Crystal Palace and Newcastle United at Selhurst Park on February 4, 2018 in London, England. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images) /
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After a slow start, Mo Diame proved to be a key player for Newcastle United.

Mohamed Diame began the season trying to erase a disappointing 2016-17 campaign. This year started off similar to his previous form, but starting around the New Year, Mighty Mo became a vital cog for Newcastle United.

2017-18 stats: 31 appearances, two goals, 72% tackle success, 48 interceptions

Contract runs until: June 2019

Roy Emanuel

One of the true surprises of 2017-18, Mohamed Diame’s turnaround this past season for Newcastle was nothing short of remarkable. Few fans would have wanted him anywhere near the line-up around December, but instead, he became a key component to success. His work in the midfield has been vital, and Rafa Benitez will expect more of Diame’s excellent work next season.

2018-19 outlook: Surefire starter

Durim Halimi

Quality rotation even though he was a starter this season? Yes and here is why. Mohamed Diame was a reliable starter who played well alongside Jonjo Shelvey. The strongman in the middle simply played more often because of the weak competition in central midfield. Newcastle needs an upgrade and if the club purchases a new midfielder, Diame will go to the bench.

2018-19 outlook: Quality rotation player

Carson A. Merk

If you would have told me in the early months of the season that Mohamed Diame would become vital to Newcastle United’s success, I would’ve laughed in your face. He was unenthusiastic at the beginning of the year, often losing the ball or going into unnecessary tackles. Then, all of a sudden, he became locked in. He commanded the midfield, serving as the destroyer next to the attack-minded Jonjo Shelvey. Mo also began to show confidence on the ball and was unafraid of pushing past defenders. Next season, I would give him every chance to keep that starting position.

2018-19 outlook: Surefire starter

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Declan Ryan

Diame has been arguably the biggest surprise this season. The 30-year-old struggled to find his form initially but settled brilliantly in 2018 once Benitez moved him to more of a defensive role. Diame has transformed himself into an impervious figure in front of the defense with strong tackling and tireless running. He’s been unlucky to score only 2 goals in the Premier League this season as his technical ability is largely underrated. Mikel Merino could very well be leaving Tyneside this year and that would leave Diame with even less competition in center midfield, so for the time being, he’s a nailed on starter.

2018-19 outlook: Surefire starter