Shay Given comprehends Martin Dubravka’s potential desire to depart Newcastle United this summer. Last season, the 35-year-old featured in 30 games following Nick Pope’s absence due to a dislocated shoulder. Dubravka subsequently represented Slovakia at Euro 2024, playing in all four matches as they advanced to the round of 16.
Less than a day after Slovakia’s elimination by England, Newcastle revealed the acquisition of two goalkeepers. Odysseas Vlachodimos arrived from Nottingham Forest as part of the Elliot Anderson deal for an undisclosed fee, while John Ruddy signed a one-year contract following his departure from Birmingham City.
With Mark Gillespie also in the fold, Newcastle United now have five goalkeepers on their roster. However, Given does not anticipate Pope being displaced from his position as the number one goalkeeper.
“I saw bits of him [Vlachodimos] last year at Forest but I don’t know a lot about him,” Given commented. “But again, he wasn’t a regular at Forest so I’d imagine Eddie [Howe] sees him as a backup option rather than someone who will start in the first team.
“He might go in there and impress everyone and really challenge Nick Pope for the No.1 jersey, but I would be surprised if that happens.
“John Ruddy has also joined the squad. It seems like they are building a group of goalkeepers to strengthen that department, especially since Loris [Karius] has left.”
With Nick Pope established as the first-choice goalkeeper and Odysseas Vlachodimos and John Ruddy as backups, Martin Dubravka’s future at Newcastle United is uncertain, especially since he is entering the final year of his contract.
Dubravka, who has played 163 games since arriving from Sparta Prague in January 2018, has impressed Shay Given with his performances last season and at Euro 2024. Given speculates whether it’s time for Dubravka to seek a new challenge, considering interest from Celtic and clubs in the Middle East.
Speaking to NewcastleWorld, the club legend said, “I don’t know what’s happening with Dubravka and if he’s maybe got ambitions to leave after playing really well last season whilst Nick was out and having a good Euros as well. So he might think it is a good opportunity to go and play at a different club.”
“I’m not sure about his situation. I think he might only have a year left on his contract, and he might be considering his options from his own perspective. After a strong showing at the Euros, he might feel it’s time to assess his personal situation.”
Dubravka has confirmed his intention to sit down with Newcastle manager Eddie Howe to discuss his future. Depending on Howe’s stance—whether he wants Dubravka to stay and compete with Nick, featuring in cup matches and emphasizing squad depth—the conversation could vary. However, if Howe indicates that Nick will be the primary choice and Dubravka won’t play regularly, the situation changes.
If Dubravka receives a three or four-year contract offer from another club, he’ll need to consider it seriously, especially given his strong performance when Nick was injured. With attention on his impressive display in the Euros, observers await developments. Although specifics of Dubravka’s talks with Howe aren’t known yet, clarity on the situation is expected in the coming weeks.
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