Brilliant from Allan Saint-Maximin - "Newcastle is my dream club"

It's been a wild three years for Allan Saint-Maximin since the Frenchman left Newcastle United in July 2023.

After a spell in Saudi Arabia with Al-Ahli, where he briefly worked under Toon boss Matthias Jaissle, the 29-year-old spent a season at Fenerbahce under Jose Mourinho.

Since then, he's been to Club America in Mexico, where his family were subjected to sickening racist abuse, was back in Ligue 1 last season with Lens, and has recently joined MLS side Charlotte FC, playing under former Aston Villa boss Dean Smith.

This week, ASM has been speaking to BBC Sport about the racial abuse suffered in Mexico, and his time on Tyneside: a period he still cherishes to this day.

Saint-Maximin: I still love Newcastle United 

After wishing that Matthias Jaissle and staff "have the best possible time" at Newcastle, the Frenchman spoke openly about his love for the club.

The winger admits that he still watches "every single game" and has rejected recent offers from the Premier League out of loyalty to Newcastle.

"Newcastle is my dream club. I love it from the bottom of my heart. I watch every single game.

"They gave me what no-one gave to me and I'll never forget that. 

"I'm very loyal. I had many opportunities to come to the Premier League, but I didn't because of them."

A rare breed in modern day football 

Saint-Maximin then spoke about giving back to the community while on Tyneside, having donated to the NUFC Foodbank and gifted Rolex watches to supporters. 

He clearly felt the love during his time in Newcastle, and told BBC Sport about the impact it had on him, both on and off the pitch.

"If I was able to give all of my money to them, I would because there is nothing better than the feeling they give you. It's something you can't buy, and I've tried to.

"The love they give to you, when I ran with the ball, I had the feeling of people behind me and I ran because of them.

"This feeling is incredible. I wish the same for every single player because they can bring the best out of you."

Saint-Maximin is a rare breed. An off-the-cuff footballer with a big heart and so much love for a club and city who adored what he gave us during such a bleak era.

We'd like to wish Allan and his family all the best in America. Once a Mag, always a Mag.