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2018-19 Newcastle United player evaluation: Javier Manquillo

By Carson A Merk

CARDIFF, WALES - AUGUST 18: Javier Manquillo of Newcastle United challenges for the ball with Josh Murphy of Cardiff City during the Premier League match between Cardiff City and Newcastle United at Cardiff City Stadium on August 18, 2018 in Cardiff, United Kingdom. (Photo by Harry Trump/Getty Images)
CARDIFF, WALES - AUGUST 18: Javier Manquillo of Newcastle United challenges for the ball with Josh Murphy of Cardiff City during the Premier League match between Cardiff City and Newcastle United at Cardiff City Stadium on August 18, 2018 in Cardiff, United Kingdom. (Photo by Harry Trump/Getty Images) /
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The Newcastle United full back was serviceable when called upon this season.

In his first season with Newcastle United in 2017-18, Javier Manquillo looked like a player that was overmatched and overwhelmed in the Premier League. This season, when filling in for an injured DeAndre Yedlin at various times, Manquillo looked like he could be a quality rotational defender. Does he have a future as a rotational player? Should Newcastle United sell him? We take a look at his second season with the Magpies and what next season holds.

2018-19 Premier League stats: 18 appearances, three assists, 17 interceptions, 15 goals conceded

Durim Halimi

Javier Manquillo is one of the few players on the roster who disappointed me during the 2017-18 campaign, but I thought he was a decent defender this term. The Spaniard looked more confident in his role this season and was a major surprise offensively by contributing three assists. Manquillo also looked more aggressive this season and did well to recover the ball in dangerous areas.

Despite these improvements in his game, Manquillo still struggled against some speedy wingers and this did leave Newcastle United vulnerable in some matches. That being said, the fact that Manquillo’s overall form improved this season makes him more reliable. I do not think he is a surefire starter, and I think DeAndre Yedlin is a better defender, but he is proving to be a quality second choice wing-back for Rafa Benitez.

2019-20 NUFC outlook: Quality rotational player

Carson A. Merk

In 2017-18, it was tough watching Javier Manquillo play for Newcastle United. He seemed physically and mentally out of his league. This season, it was much better. Javi’s work rate was great and he was anywhere from average to above average in his appearances.

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Do I think he will be a first-choice starter going forward? Absolutely not. Should Newcastle United sell him? I don’t think so. I think Manquillo should be in the exact same spot next season as he was this year. When he’s needed, off the bench or in a spot start, he can step in. He’s only 25 years old and will continue to improve his strength and decision making. The club would be wise to keep him around and a part of their rotation.

2019-20 NUFC outlook: Quality rotational player