Opinion: Newcastle United’s transfer window gives me mild hope

I’m not saying I’m a believer. And I’m not saying that we’re going to win the league, either, because that’s just some nonsense. However, I am saying that Newcastle United has one hell of a front three, as well as improved defensive depth. While I wish I could say Rafa Benitez would make this team finish for Europe, he’s the past and Bruce is the future.

But just what can Steve Bruce do with this squad? A lot of things. There is no reason that Joelinton should be wanting for goals with Miguel Almiron and Allan Saint-Maximin feeding the ball to him. Signing Jetro Willems with a squad that consists of Paul Dummett, Jamaal Lascelles, Florian Lejeune, and DeAndre Yedlin I would consider a top setup.

For once in a long time I am actually impressed by the talent brought into the club, even if it is young and unproven talent in the world’s most difficult football league. Even if it is with a manager who is clearly out of his depth in said league.

Early Success is Key for Future Growth

Steve Bruce now really only has one job. And that’s to hit the ground running. He needs to get the squad that has a handful of new faces to mesh together and work together towards a common goal. So far this preseason, we’ve had a lot to enjoy. But the season is in less than a week, and all that matters now is that first match against Arsenal. Will Joelinton score? Will Almiron be the difference maker that he was last season? How will Willems, and Allan Saint-Maximin prove their worth?

And while I will be following this article up with what I expect out of the players against Arsenal, let’s talk about what I expect from Steve Bruce:

Early success.

I understand that Newcastle United has one of the toughest starts to the season, but success early on won’t be defined by me as winning against Arsenal, Tottenham, or Manchester United. It’s how the club performs against them, netting wins here and there and forcing draws against these top clubs.

Success early on will give Bruce what he needs to plan for the future. Figuring out where the new signings fit into the equation in the latter half of the season. Figuring out just who won’t cut it and will be sold in January.

But with the players that we have now, I feel a bit more comfortable going into this season. Not enough for me to say call off the wolves, or don’t boycott. But enough for me to say, I’m intrigued to see what football is played by this club come August 11th.