The Brazilian midfielder will make his 250th appearance for the club against Aston Villa
14:10, 24 Jan 2026Updated 14:11, 24 Jan 2026
Newcastle United’s Joelinton(Image: SmartFrame/News Images)
It would have been a brave man who predicted this in 2019. When Joelinton runs out for Newcastle United against Aston Villa on Sunday, it will be the Brazilian’s 250th appearance for the club in all competitions
It’s a far cry from the early days of his career on Tyneside, when the then No 9 struggled to make an impact after a £40m move from Hoffenheim.
It was rare that Mike Ashley was persuaded to part with such a large transfer fee, which only magnified the pressure as Joelinton found goals hard to come by.
But an inspired switch in position under Eddie Howe, just weeks into his Newcastle reign, changed everything.
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The rest is history as Joelinton went from strength to strength as a tough tackling midfielder, ironically with an eye for goal, who has helped propel the club into the Champions League twice, and win the Carabao Cup last season.
Now 29, he has reflected on almost six years at St James’ Park and the achievement of notching 250 games in black-and-white – but he’s not done yet.
“It’s been such a journey, with great moments, some difficult moments as well,” he told told Sky Sports.
“But I enjoy every time here and I have great memories that will live with me forever.
“This is the club that I’ve been at for most years, and where I’ve played my best football. It’s a great achievement to come from where I’m from in Brazil to be here – I represent my family and my state in Brazil. It’s a great number and I hope there’s more to come.”
While Joelinton has plenty miles in the tank left yet, he will turn 30 in August, and thoughts turned to his future.
A return to Brazil in the latter stages of his career remains a possibility, but he admits it would be a dream to be able to continue with Newcastle.
“That’s a difficult question,” he said when asked about his future plans.
“I always had in my head that I’d finish at the club where I started, at the club I support. But you never know, football changes so quickly.
“I love the club, and for me to finish my career here, in Europe, would be a dream for me.
“But let’s see my future, I hope to play many years, let’s see if I do it or not.”
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