The goalkeeper became Newcastle’s second arrival of the summer market, signing from Southampton on loan for an initial £4million fee. The Magpies also secured an option to buy Aaron Ramsdale permanently next year, though the exact figure is yet to be disclosed.
Ramsdale adds valuable experience to Eddie Howe’s side, having featured in the Champions League with Arsenal. Still, some Newcastle supporters questioned the signing, with names like James Trafford and Lucas Chevalier previously linked instead.
Nevertheless, Ramsdale impressed on his first outing in black and white, stopping a penalty in a friendly clash with RCD Espanyol. He was not handed his competitive debut against Aston Villa, as Nick Pope was preferred, though the expectation is that Ramsdale will soon feature in the squad.
The England international revealed his open discussion with Howe before completing the move, and has since spoken about the difference he sees between Newcastle’s fanbase and Arsenal’s.
Ramsdale believes Newcastle are being underestimated by many, but insists more achievements await at St James’ Park.
While Howe’s reputation drew him in, the 27-year-old admitted it was also the passion of Newcastle’s fanbase that persuaded him to join.
During an interview with beIN Sport ahead of the Premier League opener, Ramsdale was asked how the Magpies’ fans compare with those at Arsenal.
“Yeah, I think they’re different in their own way. Arsenal have a huge worldwide following, a lot of overseas fans, while here it feels like the whole city supports Newcastle,” he explained.
“When I first came up, the squad were on tour in Asia, so I spent time with people inside the club I normally wouldn’t, like the chefs, admin staff and media team. I felt a real connection with them compared to just passing by when the players are around.
“I’d only packed clothes for a short stay, expecting I might travel to Asia, so I had to head into town to pick up shirts, socks and other bits. Walking through, you could see Newcastle shirts everywhere, and people approached me, not for pictures or long chats, but just to say ‘welcome, enjoy your time here’.”
Newcastle’s Premier League campaign began with a stalemate against Aston Villa, a 0-0 result despite creating several promising opportunities.
Some supporters expected Ramsdale to feature from the start, but Howe kept faith in Pope for the opener.
That decision was always part of the plan, with reports suggesting Newcastle rejected interest in Pope, who Howe still values highly as a goalkeeper.
The 33-year-old showed composure at Villa Park, producing several solid saves, though his footwork in distribution remains an issue. That is an area where Ramsdale is particularly strong, so Howe could eventually turn to him later in the season.