Newcastle confirm star is leaving with emotional video 24 hours before final home game

Emil Krafth was reduced to tears as Newcastle paid him a touching tribute after his departure from the club was confirmed. 

The Magpies have announced that Krafth will leave St James’ Park when his contract expires this summer, bringing an end to his seven-year stint on Tyneside.

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Krafth joined Newcastle in 2019, and has since gone on to make 106 appearances for the club, as well as lifting the 2025 Carabao Cup.

The right-back has mainly been used as a squad player during his time in the north east, but has proved popular with fans with his reliable performances when called upon.

He is currently sidelined with a knee injury which has caused him to miss the majority of the season.

But after Newcastle confirmed his departure ahead of their final home game of the season against West Ham, the 31-year-old will be given the chance to bid farewell to supporters with a half-time presentation.

‘Proud’

In a club statement, Krafth said: “Newcastle is somewhere I’ve been really proud to call home.

“I’ve had up and down moments on a personal level, and some difficult times with injury, but I’ve always felt such brilliant support from the fans, my team-mates, the coaching staff and everybody connected to the club.

“This is something I will remember forever and want to say a massive thank you for.

“It’s been a privilege to wear the shirt and especially to play a part in a team that has managed to make history in the past few years.

“I believe the future is really bright for this club and I’ll be following the journey closely and continuing to support from a distance.”

Emotional scenes

After announcing his exit, Newcastle released a touching video where Krafth is shown heartfelt messages thanking him for his service.

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In it, teammates Bruno Guimaraes, Dan Burn and Fabian Schar all pay tribute to the Swede, as well as his parents.

Captain Guimaraes begins: “Hi Krafu, my guy! Before you go, I just want to thank you for everything.

“It was a privilege to play alongside you my friend. Honestly I will miss you. At least get a trim before you go.”

Krafth looks visibly emotional watching the video message, and can be seen fighting back tears.

Fellow defender Burn says: “Seven years is a long time to be at any football club, but to be at Newcastle is very special.

“So first of all, you’re an amazing footballer. But second of all, an even better person.

“Good luck wherever you go mate and whatever you do there’s only one Emil Krafth. Love you, buddy.”

‘Means a lot’

With Krafth looking increasingly moved, his next message came from Schar, who he has played alongside for the entirety of his Newcastle career.

He says: “Krafthy. After seven years that we played together, and now it’s time to say goodbye.

“You’ve been unbelievable as a player but mostly as a person, And I want to say thank you for all these years and for what you have achieved.”

Rounding off the heart-warming video, Krafth’s parents then sent in a touching message where they spoke of their pride of him.

Their message said: “Hi Emil, Mum and Dad here.

“You have run with the ball since you could walk, and we are very happy and proud of being a part of your football career.

“We are so proud of you, Emil, of course for the football player are. But most of all, for the person you are. For the kind and caring son, father and husband. We love you.”

This left Krafth overcome with emotion, who was shown wiped away tears after the final video message was played.

The full-back was barely able to speak as a member of staff could be heard saying: “It means a lot to you, this club, doesn’t it?

Still tearful, he replied: “It does.”