NEWCASTLE Jets have secured the services of Cameroon international Olivier Boumal on a one-year deal ahead of the 2021/22 A-League campaign.
The 31-year-old arrives with six international caps to his name and a wealth of experience accrued in the Greek Super League at both Panathinaikos and Panionios, J.League side Yokohama F. Marinos, Chinese Super League outfit Liaoning FC and his most recent club Saburtalo, in Georgia’s Crystalbet Erovnuli Liga.
Joining Newcastle was an appetising prospect for Boumal, who told the club website he’s eager to work under Jets boss Arthur Papas. Boumal’s departure from Yokohama in 2019 coincided with Papas’ arrival as assistant to Ange Postecoglu, and the Cameroonian sees the blueprint of a familiar brand of football being implemented at his new club that he’s eager to get on board with.
“For the Newcastle supporters I would like to start off by telling them how honoured I am to be part of this great family and I hope that together we will help the club rise to the top,” Boumal said.
“I am a pure left footed player, a fast and explosive dribbler.
“I chose Newcastle because the style of play that the coach offers is the one that suits me best, having already been through Yokohama where the same football is played, it made things easier and my decision too.
“The boss is a great lover of beautiful football and I believe that this season, Newcastle will have a word to say in the Championship.”
✍️ MEET OUR NEW RECRUIT
🙌 Welcome attacking mid, Olivier Boumal to the Club
⚽ Cameroon International
🧐 Details 👉 https://t.co/il98u4Hw0x#ALeague pic.twitter.com/IeTq4eXiaK— NEWCASTLE JETS FC ✈️ (@NewcastleJetsFC) August 18, 2021
Boumal arrives as Papas’ eighth signing of the current pre-season, as the new Jets boss puts his own stamp on a club looking to improve on its 11th-placed finish in 2020/21.
Papas says Boumal will bring a number of attacking qualities to his side moving forward.
“Olivier brings pace, creativity and flair to the team,” Papas said.
“He is able to play anywhere across the front line and capable of producing match winning moments. We are excited to welcome him to the Jets.”
