Allan Saint-Maximin team-mate explains shock Newcastle United decision as Trippier hails England star

Spain Under-21 international Gabri Veiga has denied his decision to snub reported interest from the likes of Newcastle United and Manchester City to join Saudi Pro League club Al-Ahli was not dictated by money.

The 21-year-old midfielder was said to be on the radar of a number of European football’s biggest clubs after forging a fine reputation during his time with La Liga side Celta Vigo. There was some surprise when Veiga opted to become the latest European player to join the Pro League after he accepted an offer to become a team-mate of the likes of Allan Saint-Maximin and Riyad Mahrez at Al-Ahli.

Veiga insisted he was ‘100% proud’ of his decision and believes a move to Saudi was ‘the best option’ for his career.

He told El Largeuro: “I did not join the Saudi just for money.

“It was the best option to develop as a player, grow under a young coach, team full of stars and league improving as Saudi PL. I’m 100% proud of my choice”

Magpies star full of praise for England team-mate after big summer move

Kieran Trippier has described England team-mate Jude Bellingham as ‘frightening’ and is not surprised by the midfielder’s impressive start to life at Real Madrid.

The 20-year-old made a big money switch to the La Liga giants this summer after establishing himself as one of European football’s brightest prospects during a three-year spell with Borussia Dortmund.

Bellingham has scored ten goals in his first ten appearances in all competitions for Real and also found the net when he helped England to a 3-1 win against Scotland in a friendly held at Hampden Park last month. The youngster remained on the bench as the Three Lions laboured to a 1-0 win against Australia on Friday - but is expected to return to Gareth Southgate’s starting eleven for Tuesday’s Euro 2024 qualifier against Italy.

United defender Trippier has delivered a ringing endorsement of Bellingham’s ability after featuring alongside him in the England squad over the last three years and believes he is only going to improve throughout his time in Madrid.

“At such a young age, with the maturity, the quality and the aggression he’s got, he’s frightening,’’ explained the Magpies star.

“It’s not a surprise at all, the standards that he’s set in Madrid. You can see he’s playing with freedom and the players around him are going to make him even better. The scary thing is he’s only 20 years old.”