'Passing by' - Ewen Jaouen returns to former club weeks after £18m Newcastle United transfer
Ewen Jaouen has returned to his former club before joining up with Newcastle United in pre-season.
Newcastle United’s first summer signing, Ewen Jaouen, returned to his former club Stade de Reims for a visit during the off season.
The Magpies completed a £18million move to sign Jaouen from Reims last month. It comes after the 20-year-old made 34 appearances for Reims in all competitions, keeping 15 clean sheets.
His performances caught the eye of several top clubs across Europe but Newcastle swooped in quickly to strike a deal before the summer transfer window had officially opened. Jaouen is expected to be Newcastle’s second-choice goalkeeper this coming season but will be given the chance to impress in the upcoming pre-season.
He will join up with his new teammates for the first time from July 13 at The KNOX training centre. In the meantime, Jaouen has returned to Reims during his summer break.
The goalkeeper was pictured back at Reims’ Centre De Vie training complex along with another returning former player, Boulaye Dia of Lazio.
Reims’ official Instagram account shared the images along with the caption: “Boulaye Dia and Ewen Jaouen passing by Centre De Vie. It's good to see you again, gentlemen.”
It’s clear Jaouen still has a positive relationship with his former club despite his departure.
Upon joining Newcastle, the goalkeeper wrote a farewell message to Reims. It read: “As my time at the club draws to a close, I wanted to share these few words with you.
“Leaving Brittany for the first time was a significant event. Reims became a second home, and I will never forget how the club, the city, and each and every one of you welcomed me. This experience helped me grow, first as a person, then as a player.
“It's not always easy to find your footing, but here I found an environment that allowed me to progress and develop. After loan spells at Rodez and Dunkirk, for which I have a special thought, Reims will remain a pivotal moment in my journey.
“Together, we went through difficult times, experienced wonderful emotions, and I leave with memories of this season that will be etched in my mind forever.
“Thank you to all the staff, the coaches, and everyone at the club. A very special mention to Thomas, my TT (Team Trainer), thank you for your unwavering support and guidance every day.
“Thank you to the guys for the unique atmosphere in the locker room, and above all, thank you. At Delaune, away from home, you were always there.
“I will always follow Stade de Reims, and I hope the club will return to its rightful place in the top flight as soon as possible.
“I leave with nothing but respect, gratitude, and wonderful memories. The journey is what matters most. And this journey, I will never forget. Thank you, Reims.”
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