Premier League legend David Ginola has reflected on his reluctant departure from Newcastle United, sharing that he only joined Tottenham Hotspur in 1997 because he was forced out of St. James’ Park.
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Ginola had initially arrived at Newcastle in 1995 from Paris Saint-Germain, becoming an integral part of Kevin Keegan’s iconic ‘Entertainers’ squad. However, his stint in the North East lasted just two seasons.
The turning point came when Keegan left and Kenny Dalglish took over as manager, resulting in a deteriorating relationship between Ginola and Dalglish.
The Frenchman revealed in a new book, The Entertainers, that Dalglish sought to replace the foreign players signed by Keegan.
Reflecting on the time, Ginola said, “I didn’t want to leave the club, but when Kenny Dalglish took over from Kevin, it was a shock, and it just wasn’t the same anymore. We had arguments, and he didn’t play me much after that.”
Ginola also recounted a heated exchange with Dalglish after publicly expressing his frustration. “I said, ‘You treat me like I’m having an affair with your wife.’ He was furious and responded, ‘How dare you talk to me like that.’”
Ginola added that the atmosphere at the club had drastically changed under Dalglish, contrasting it with the joy of playing under Keegan.
Despite the turbulent end to his Newcastle career, Ginola enjoyed notable success at Tottenham. He was named the PFA Players’ Player of the Year and FWA Footballer of the Year in 1999, the same season Spurs won the League Cup.
Ginola also revealed that he had a late opportunity to join Arsenal before his move to Newcastle but chose to honor his verbal agreement with the Magpies. “Arsenal were one of the biggest clubs, but I gave my word to Newcastle and didn’t go back on it,” he explained.
While Ginola cherishes his memories at Newcastle, he remains hopeful that the club will once again experience the glory days he enjoyed during Keegan’s tenure.