Newcastle United summer signing Lukáš Horníček has opened up on life at the club, the Magpies’ superb support and interest from Bayern Munich and Real Madrid this summer.
The 24-year-old joined the Magpies in a €30.6m deal this summer to become their new number under Mathias Jaissle.
He’s enjoyed a solid start to life in the Premier League since, with six appearances in all competitions, nine goals conceded and two clean sheets to his name.
The move to St James Park is the biggest one of his career to date after coming through Braga’’s youth academy before making 88 appearances in the first team.
Best fans in England
Now he’s in England and sampling what it’s like to be following one of the Premier League’s most fiercely supported teams. He’s already feeling that love.
“I just have positive feelings. We have the best fans in England,” he told Sport.cz.
“I haven’t experienced a better atmosphere anywhere outside than we have. Whenever we get the ball, I feel like the stadium will explode. They’re breathing with the team. Incredible.
“I had the opportunity to do a video for club social media on the roof of the stadium and we threw balls down. I’ve got the stadium inspected in full. It’s a closed stadium with great acoustics, everything is heard. I’ve probably never experienced such a noise in my life, and if I compare it to anything, maybe to the Betisu Seville Stadium. The Magpies are elsewhere.”
The goalkeeper has even been left surprised by the manner in which Newcastle fans treat him on the streets.
“I have to say, I’m pleasantly surprised. People respect us,” he added.
“The guys in the cabin often say that the fans think we’re gods, but so far, I haven’t had a chance to be with my family somewhere in town and constantly someone came to me to take pictures.
“I’m extremely grateful for that because going shopping and taking a picture with 150 fans isn’t always enjoyable.”
Real Madrid and Bayern Munich
The goalkeeper could have ended up elsewhere this summer. His performances in Portugal had certainly gotten clubs around Europe considering his signature.
Indeed, there were rumours about Bayern Munich and Real Madrid both keeping an eye on him. He, though, says that was all just speculation.
“Honestly? When I saw it on social media, I was surprised myself. I had no idea about the interest of such clubs. It was more about speculation,” he insisted.
He will admit that there were other offers on the table, but it was Newcastle’s project that convinced him.
“I’ve had several offers,” he admitted.
“Newcastle actually joined last, but they immediately outlined the project to me. They told me what they expected from me and promised the role of number one.
“Plus, they acted very quickly, and there was no problem even with the money Braga wanted for me. I didn’t hesitate for a minute.”
