2019/20 Newcastle United Player Review: Javier Manquillo

2019/20 was Javier Manquillo’s best season for Newcastle United.

Javier Manquillo looked overmatched back in 2017/18, his first year with Newcastle United. 2018/19 saw some improvement from the full-back before he took a major step in 2019/20. We reflect on his best season so far with the Magpies.

2019/20 EPL stats: 21 appearances, one assist, 83 recoveries, 17 accurate long balls

Expert Breakdown

Durim Halimi: Javier Manquillo is the man to beat if DeAndre Yedlin and Emil Krafth aim to fight for regular minutes at right-back. The Spaniard was active on both ends of the pitch, and his impact was equally effective in defense and in attack.

Manquillo showcased his discipline as a defender by making it extremely difficult for opposing players to dribble past him, he was aggressive and successful in his duels, and led dangerous attacks from the back once he recovered the ball.

Manquillo will now enter the season with a new four-year contract in the bag. Fans will hope to see him build on last season’s form, and maybe add some goals to his game.

Carson A. Merk: Manquillo was really solid this season for Newcastle United. I didn’t know what to expect with DeAndre Yedlin returning as the usual starter and the addition of Emil Krafth. But, Javi established himself as the best option at right-back for Steve Bruce.

He’s a good combination in the attack, where he does need to improve his crossing a bit, and the defense. Over his time with the club, he’s continued to gain confidence and he’s just now entering his prime.

He earned a new contract and should definitely enter this season as the first-choice option when healthy.