After seven seasons in black and white, Emil Krafth is saying goodbye to Newcastle United—and he's leaving with nothing but gratitude and optimism for the club's future.
The Swedish defender, currently recovering from a knee injury, will officially depart when his contract expires this summer. But before he heads off, fans will get one last chance to show their appreciation. During halftime of Sunday's match against West Ham at St. James' Park, Krafth will be honored with a special presentation to bid farewell to the supporters who've stood by him through thick and thin.
"Newcastle is somewhere I've been really proud to call home," Krafth said. "I've had up and down moments on a personal level, and some difficult times with injury, but I've always felt such brilliant support from the fans, my teammates, the coaching staff, and everybody connected to the club. This is something I will remember forever."
Krafth arrived at Newcastle in 2019 and quickly became one of the squad's most reliable professionals. While he may not have always been a headline name, his impact was felt when it mattered most. In 2022, after star right-back Kieran Trippier broke his foot, Krafth stepped up in a big way, helping the Magpies pull away from relegation danger during a crucial stretch of the season.
He also played a key role in last season's historic League Cup run, featuring in five of Newcastle's seven matches, including the final victory over Liverpool. That win ended the club's 70-year wait for a major domestic trophy—a moment Krafth will forever cherish.
"It's been a privilege to wear the shirt and especially to play a part in a team that has managed to make history in the past few years," he added. "I believe the future is really bright for this club, and I'll be following the journey closely and continuing to support from a distance."
Though injuries have limited his game time recently, Krafth remained a respected and valued presence around the training ground. Manager Eddie Howe praised the 31-year-old for his leadership and character, saying Krafth "embodied what it means to be a Newcastle United player on and off the pitch."
"Emil can be really proud of everything he has achieved here," Howe added. "He's been a big part of our success over the past few seasons. Even with his injury setbacks, he's played a valuable role behind the scenes with his positive mentality and outstanding professionalism."
As Krafth prepares to turn the page on his Newcastle chapter, he leaves behind a legacy of resilience, dedication, and a deep connection to a club he proudly called home. For fans wearing the black and white, his journey is a reminder that every player—whether in the starting XI or on the sidelines—plays a part in building something special.