Federico Fernandez has sent a touching farewell message to Newcastle United after his deadline day move to Spanish side Elche. The defender, 33, said his goodbyes on Tyneside after six years at the club following his recent first-team exile.
Fernandez fell down the pecking order at Newcastle following Eddie Howe's arrival back in 2021. Recent injures, coupled with the impressive form of Newcastle's central defenders, saw the Argentinian's game time drastically decrease.
Fernandez was unveiled as an Elche player in recent days before being an unused substitute in the 4-0 defeat to Villarreal over the weekend. Speaking upon his arrival, the veteran paid tribute to Newcastle for their treatment over the years.
READ MORE: How 'down-to-earth' Alexander Isak will respond to mammoth Newcastle United price tag pressure
“I also want to mention Newcastle, where I have been very comfortable and where they treated me wonderfully to respect my decision to leave," Fernandez said. "Everything was given in the end and I am very happy to be here with Elche. Now, to work because this has already started and we need to be good.”
Fernandez's departure was expected over the summer as Howe trimmed his bloated squad. The news of the exit didn't arrive until two hours before the transfer deadline on September 1, despite Elche's long-running interest in a permanent deal.
“The market is long and from the beginning of the season I wanted to move," Fernandez continued.
"He wanted to think it over with the family to make the right decision. Offers came while I was training in preseason. Elche was there from the beginning. We analysed it and we liked the project to lend a hand.
"They have received me very well; the locker room is a nice family that is united. It looked like this from the beginning. I wanted to go out to feel good and make myself available to the coach. I am happy that this signing has taken place."
READ NEXT
Eddie Howe reveals what he had to do after Liverpool pain as Newcastle get training ground break
Premier League boss makes very exciting Newcastle prediction after looking at 'what they spend'
Joelinton's VAR fury, Eddie Howe's three words get reaction and Newcastle's very special guests
Newcastle's VAR theory, Alexander Isak's encouraging reaction to miss and £10m snip - 5 things
Newcastle transfer plan launched as Eddie Howe admits he already knows what he needs in 2023
