Dubravka speaks out on Saudi offer, Mitchell talks and new contract claims

Martin Dubravka, currently enjoying one of his best spells in goal at Newcastle United, could potentially be committing his future to the club with a new contract extension, according to the man himself.

In an interview with Sky Sports’ Keith Downie, Dubravka revealed more about his rumoured move to the Middle East, and the truth behind his decision to stay in the North East in January.

The full interview is due to be released later this week, but some initial quotes have come out from Keith Downie’s exclusive interview with the Slovakian showstopper.

Newcastle vs Al-Shabab

Up until Nick Pope’s injury and Dubravka’s exceptional run of form between the sticks, it was widely expected that the 36-year-old would soon be on to pastures new.

A move to Saudi Arabian side Al-Shabab was discussed, but Dubravka remained committed to his current club during this time.

“There was a specific offer on the table (from Al-Shabab) and discussions from early December, but I always said to Newcastle ‘it’s basically up to you what you want to do’.

“I still had a contract, my mindset was still here, and I was playing.”

“So I said to the gaffer, ‘I don’t want to think about whether I’m leaving or not, I just want to make the most of my time on the pitch.”

His relationship with Eddie Howe and Paul Mitchell

The keeper looks to have maintained a strong positive relationship with manager Eddie Howe and Sporting Director Paul Mitchell, revealing that he never pushed to leave.

“I sat down with the club and we made the decision together that the best for both parties was to stay here.”

“I think the manager and Sporting Director respected the fact I didn’t push my way out.”

His commitment to the club and fans

 

"I'm glad that I can be where I belong" ⚫⚪

Newcastle goalkeeper Martin Dubravka says he wants to stay at the club as long as possible after he appeared to wave goodbye to the fans last month. pic.twitter.com/PirBAkwAuX

— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) February 13, 2025

Since signing permanently in 2018, Dubravka has earned cult hero status at Newcastle, and is expected to be the starting keeper for the Carabao Cup final against Liverpool.

Having been a Manchester United loanee at the time of Newcastle’s loss to the Red Devils in the 2023 final, Dubravka looks to be more committed than ever to deliver one more exceptional performance for the Magpies.

“I hope people can see my commitment. I’m happy I’m back where I belong, and that’s the Newcastle United dressing room.”

“If we sign the extension then I’ll be happy. I want to stay here as long as I can, I love the club.”

With Nick Pope slowly returning to the first team squad, Howe faces a truly unfortunate selection headache, but barring any poor performances between now and Wembley, Dubravka’s selection in the starting XI will be more than deserved.