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Newcastle United: Expectations for Kenedy next season

By Durim Halimi

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND - MARCH 10: Kenedy of Newcastle United celebrates after scoring his sides second goal during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Southampton at St. James Park on March 10, 2018 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)
NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND - MARCH 10: Kenedy of Newcastle United celebrates after scoring his sides second goal during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Southampton at St. James Park on March 10, 2018 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images) /
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The Brazilian youngster is back on Tyneside, but can he be a top player for Newcastle United once again?

Kenedy has officially returned to Newcastle United and Rafa Benitez is happy to have the Brazilian back on Tyneside. Kenedy wasted little time to showcase his talent as he had an immediate impact on the club in his debut against Burnley.

A key trait that transformed Kenedy into a fan favorite last season was his consistency on the field. From his debut in late January through the final matches in May, Kenedy was in top form as he caused several problems for opposing defenses.

Kenedy undoubtedly exceeded expectations as a loanee last season and supporters hope he can carry on with that form. This season, Kenedy’s primary objective must be centered on becoming a playmaker for the Magpies.

Young Leader

At the young age of 22, Kenedy seems prepared for the pressure to perform at an elite level for Newcastle next season. Kenedy is excited to be back under the wings of Benitez and the Spaniard is equally excited to see the winger develop into a potential star.

Last season served as a great audition for Kenedy to prove he is worth the hype, but this season the Brazilian must be prepared to lead. Yes, Jamaal Lascelles is the general on the field, but Kenedy will also have a special role.

The speedy Brazilian will be expected to be the main playmaker for Newcastle. The club currently lacks a true playmaker, but Kenedy has the potential to fill that void with his pace, advanced dribbling and shooting capabilities.

Goals From Midfield

The transfer market will close in a few weeks and the Magpies are struggling to bring in a quality striker. This is bad news for a Newcastle side that only scored 39 goals last season as it means the midfield will have to provide most of the goals.

Last season, it was Ayoze Perez who stepped up to the plate and scored eight meaningful goals for Newcastle. This season, the expectation will be for Kenedy to claim the most goals from midfield.

Why? Kenedy gladly left Chelsea to prove his worth as a quality winger and he will do whatever he can to show that he can elevate Newcastle’s status in England. In order for that general objective to be achieved, the club will need goals and Kenedy can surely provide them for Newcastle.

Preview: 2018-19 Statistics

Kenedy is the talk of the town as supporters are glad to have the talented winger back at St. James’ Park. Kenedy is a talented midfielder with plenty of potential to become an elite player and that development will take shape this coming season. Here are my predictions for Kenedy in the 2018-19 Premier League campaign:

  • Goals: 10
  • Assists: 7
  • Passes: 1,400