Newcastle fans and millions of football lovers around the globe were treated to some incredible games at the 2022 World Cup.
We saw Morocco make history by becoming the first African side to reach a World Cup semi-final, while Lionel Messi finally got his hands on the iconic trophy after a truly remarkable final against France.
Dan Ashworth – Director of Football at Newcastle – was surely keeping a close eye on emerging talents in Qatar, and here are three breakout stars we think he should bring to Tyneside…
Azzedine Ounahi
Few people knew about the 22-year-old before the World Cup began, but they do know.
Azzedine Ounahi – who was likened to N’Golo Kante by Martin Tyler during the tournament – started six of Morocco’s seven games in Qatar, where his dribbling skills and technical ability certainly caught the eye.
Eddie Howe could do with a tricky attacking midfielder to play ahead of Joelinton and Bruno Guimaraes, so we think the Morocco star would thrive in black and white.
Goncalo Ramos
There is no better way to announce yourself to the footballing world than to score a hattrick in a World Cup Round of 16 clash, especially after being picked to start ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo.
That is exactly what Portugal international Goncalo Ramos did in the 6-1 win over Switzerland, and we feel Newcastle should pounce on him before his value soars even higher.
According to 90min, Chris Wood has been put up for sale, so it certainly seems as if Ashworth is trying to make room for another striker to arrive.
Mohammed Kudus
Mohammed Kudus was already performing to a very high level with Ajax before the World Cup started, scoring ten goals in 21 appearances – including a rocket against Liverpool at Anfield in the Champions League.
Ghana failed to make it out of Group H in Qatar, but Kudus still scored two goals in three appearances to announce himself on the world stage.
A versatile forward capable of playing out wide or in the centre, the Ajax No.20 should definitely be on Newcastle’s shortlist.
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