Alan Shearer and Anthony Gordon react to major Newcastle United announcement as free transfer confirmed
Callum Wilson Bids Emotional Farewell to Newcastle United After Scoring 49 Goals for the Club
Callum Wilson’s time as a Newcastle United player has officially come to an end, marking the conclusion of a memorable chapter in both his career and the club’s recent history. Since arriving at St James’ Park in the summer of 2020, Wilson went on to net 49 goals in all competitions for the Magpies—an impressive 47 of which came in the Premier League. His debut strike against West Ham United in September 2020 set the tone for a prolific spell that would leave a lasting legacy on Tyneside.
Wilson’s departure was confirmed by the club alongside a heartfelt farewell message from the striker himself. In it, he expressed his gratitude and deep emotional connection with the club and its supporters:
> “To all you Magpies… It’s time to say goodbye after an unbelievable few years in the Toon. Thank you for everything. We stood strong together through the highs and some lows to help the club experience new heights. I am so proud to have worn the iconic number 9 shirt and to have added a little more history to it. Scoring at the Gallowgate End really is as special as they say. All good things come to an end, but there’s no doubt Newcastle United will always have a place in mine and my family’s hearts. Thank you for the memories. CW9.”
Despite suffering from a number of injury setbacks during the latter part of his time at Newcastle, Wilson remained an influential figure both on and off the pitch. As a senior member of the squad and part of the team’s leadership group, his presence extended beyond goals—he was a mentor to younger players and a respected voice in the dressing room.
Following the announcement, several of Wilson’s teammates and figures close to the club paid tribute to his impact. Winger Anthony Gordon took to Instagram, posting images of himself alongside Wilson with the message:
> “Honestly one of the best and most inspiring people I’ve met. Elite mentality and teammate. I’m gunna miss you brother. Good luck with whatever comes next ♥”
Sven Botman also shared his appreciation, writing:
> “One of the purest persons I ever met, a true friend for life. See you soon broskii, good luck in your next chapter.”
Even club legend Alan Shearer, who remains Newcastle’s all-time leading scorer with 147 Premier League goals, acknowledged Wilson’s contributions with a brief but warm message on social media:
> “Well done Callum and good luck going forward 🙏🙋♂️🖤🤍”
Wilson’s tally of 47 Premier League goals places him third on Newcastle’s all-time top scorers list in the competition—only surpassed by Shearer and current striker Alexander Isak, who has 54 goals to his name. That puts Wilson among elite company, and underscores the consistent threat he posed during his time in black and white.
Originally handed the number 13 shirt upon arrival, Wilson was later entrusted with the famous number 9 shirt ahead of the 2021/22 campaign—a season in which he netted eight goals and helped guide the team away from relegation under newly-appointed manager Eddie Howe. His performances, leadership, and knack for scoring crucial goals made him, in the eyes of many supporters, the most effective wearer of the number 9 shirt since Shearer hung up his boots.
Over the past few years, Newcastle have seen a number of strikers try to fill the void left by Shearer’s retirement, but few have come close to matching Wilson’s consistency and quality in front of goal.
As Wilson now prepares for the next chapter of his career, he has already been linked with a potential move to Leeds United. The Yorkshire club are keen to bolster their attacking options ahead of their return to the Premier League, and Wilson’s experience and proven goalscoring record would certainly be a valuable asset.
While his time at Newcastle may be over, Callum Wilson leaves behind a strong legacy—one built on professionalism, resilience, and a goalscoring instinct that few have matched in the Premier League era at the club.