Federico Fernandez calls it a day | OneFootball

Thursday has brought news that Federico Fernandez has called it a day.

One of many excellent Rafa Benitez (of necessity) budget signings, the Argentina international was a class act for Newcastle United.

Federico Fernandez one of those who played a major role in the Newcastle United defence conceding the seventh lowest number of goals in each of Rafa’s two NUFC Premier League seasons.

Federico Fernandez is ending his career where he started.

The now 35 year old defender has been at Estudiantes these past two seasons and the league season in Argentina ends this month, playing over a calendar year, rather than August-May, as is the case in the Premier League.

Newcastle United via Twitter – 12 December 2024:

‘Our former defender, Federico Fernández has announced his retirement from football as he’s set to play his final game on December 21.

Congratulations on all you have achieved in your playing career Federico Fernandez

We wish you all the very best for the future.’

The Mag report – 1 September 2022:

Federico Fernandez has returned to La Liga.

An official Newcastle United announcement revealing that the Argentine international has completed a permanent move to Elche.

The Spanish club currently have one point from three games and are third bottom of La Liga.

Federico Fernandez has given great service to Newcastle United and was one of many excellent budget signings by Rafa Benitez.

However, now aged 33 he wants the chance of regular football.

Newcastle United official announcement – 1 September 2022:

‘Defender Federico Fernández has left Newcastle United to join Elche CF after just over four years at St. James’ Park.

The 33-year-old Argentina international joined the Magpies in August 2018, from Swansea City, and made 89 appearances for the club, scoring twice and captaining the team on occasion in the absence of regular skipper Jamaal Lascelles.

A popular player with supporters, staff and team-mates, he struggled with injuries last term and played only twice under Eddie Howe, but the head coach has previously spoken of the former Napoli man’s influence off the pitch, while he frequently demonstrated his abilities on it during his time on Tyneside.

And he has now signed for the La Liga side, who are currently 17th in Spain’s top flight, on a permanent basis.