'Thank you for everything' - Bruno Guimaraes issues emotional message as Newcastle United teammate exit confirmed
Emil Krafth will leave Newcastle United when his contract expires at the end of the season.
Bruno Guimaraes has led tributes to Emil Krafth after the Swede announced he will be leaving Newcastle United after seven years.
Krafth will pay an emotional farewell to the St James’ Park crowd during a half-time presentation at Sunday's Premier League fixture against West Ham United.
The 31-year-old joined from French club Amiens SC in 2019 and has gone on to make 106 appearances, including a late cameo as the Magpies ended their 56-year trophy drought by beating Liverpool in last year’s Carabao Cup final.
Alongside Kieran Trippier, whose summer exit was confirmed last month, Krafth will officially depart when his contract expires on June 30.
Bruno Guimaraes leads Newcastle United tributes to Emil Krafth
Led by club captain Guimaraes, several of Krafth’s tributes have paid an emotional tribute ahead of his farewell.
Guimaraes said: “Hi Krafu, my guy! Before you go, I just want to thank you for everything we have done together. It was a privilege to play alongside you my friend.
“You are going to be missed - what a guy, man. Honestly, I will miss you and I wish you all the best.”
Meanwhile, defender Dan Burn said: “Really, really sad to see you go. Seven years is a long time to be at any football club, but to be at Newcastle is very special.
“You’ve been a great player, I’ve loved playing with you when I’ve had the chance. You pretty much reinvented the way that we defend one-twos - that should be known as the Krafth one-two now!
“First of all, an amazing footballer but second of all, an even better person. I think just even having you around the training ground and being around you every day with the lads has been very special, and I’m very happy we crossed paths in our careers and I got to spend the last four years with you.
“Good luck wherever you go and whatever you do. There’s only one Emil Krafth. Love you buddy.”
Emil Krafth is leaving Newcastle United
On leaving, Krafth said: "I'm so grateful to have had the opportunity to represent this incredible football club for the past seven years. It's been a huge part of my life, I've made some amazing memories here and 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 last 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."