Joining the Magpies in the winter of 2019, star winger Miguel Almiron has been one of the crucial components in the club's frontline setup. Having played more than 200 games and recorded significant goal contributions, the Paraguayan star has done enough to be called a club hero, but now it feels that the winger is losing prominence in Eddie Howe's Newcastle setup.
Newcastle star starved of game time gets backed by national team manager
So far this season, Almiron has seen rare game time for the Magpies club, with just 63 minutes of play for him. In fact, out of that, a massive 61 minutes came off in the club's EFL Cup, where the wing forward was entrusted with the starting role against Nottingham Forest. Moreover, Harvey Barnes' prominence at the club hasn't helped the seasoned player's case, pushing him onto the manager's second-choice list.
Not to forget, Miguel Almiron was being linked to an MLS move in the later stages of the summer transfer window; however, negotiations couldn't be finalized, keeping him stuck at the club. Now, having dropped down the priority order for Eddie Howe, being 30 already, chances are less for him to relaunch his career at a top club again. However, in this difficult phase for the Magpies star, his national team manager has backed the wing forward.
Paraguayan manager Gustavo Alfaro had this to say on Almiron's situation at Newcastle:
"“I know he’s doing very well, with a lot of expectations, going through a very particular situation. As long as he performs for the national team, I’m not worried.""Gustavo Alfaro
Not to forget, Almiron had spent the early summer on national duty for Paraguay in the Copa America. Although the nation couldn't advance much to the later stages of the tournament, being eliminated in the group stage only, Alfaro said this on Almiron's performance:
"“Honestly, I was very satisfied with the performance, not just of him but of all the boys.”"Gustavo Alfaro
While getting backed by International managers is common for players, the affection Alfaro showed in his message reflects Almiron's importance for his national team. Having 60 International caps for Paraguay, he has surely done enough to get the status of a national legend for his contributions.
Overall, while it remains to be seen how Miguel Almiron's situation grows at the club, this backing from his national manager would certainly have comforted the star winger. Although much can't be said beforehand on his future from here, Newcastle fans would hope for him to relaunch his career, be it at the Magpies club or somewhere else.