Newcastle United have confirmed that striker Callum Wilson will depart the club after five memorable seasons at St James’ Park, marking the end of an era for the beloved forward. The 33-year-old, whose contract expired on June 30, 2025, rejected an incentivized pay-as-you-play deal, opting instead to pursue new challenges as a free agent. Wilson’s departure leaves behind a legacy defined by clutch goals, leadership, and an enduring connection with the Toon Army, as well as a now-vacant iconic number 9 shirt.
— Callum Wilson (@CallumWilson) July 7, 2025
A Journey of Impact
Callum Wilson arrived at Newcastle United in the summer of 2020 from AFC Bournemouth for a reported £20 million, a transfer that reunited him with manager Eddie Howe, under whom he had thrived at Bournemouth. At a time when Newcastle were battling to avoid relegation, Wilson’s signing was a beacon of hope. He made an immediate impact, scoring on his Premier League debut against West Ham United and finishing his first season with 12 goals in 26 league appearances, helping the Magpies secure their top-flight status.
Wilson’s finest hour came during the 2022/23 season, when he netted 18 Premier League goals in 31 matches, finishing as Newcastle’s top scorer and the league’s fifth-highest goalscorer. His clinical finishing was instrumental in propelling Newcastle to a fourth-place finish and qualification for the UEFA Champions League, their first appearance in the competition in two decades. His 49 goals in 130 appearances across all competitions rank him third behind only Alan Shearer (148) and Alexander Isak (54) in Newcastle’s Premier League goal-scoring charts.
Beyond the numbers, Wilson’s contribution extended to pivotal moments. He played a role in Newcastle’s Carabao Cup triumph in 2025, ending the club’s 70-year domestic trophy drought, even if his appearances were limited due to injuries. His four appearances in the 2023/24 Champions League campaign further cemented his place in the club’s modern history.
Battling Adversity
Wilson’s time at Newcastle was not without challenges. Injuries, particularly hamstring issues, plagued his tenure, with the striker missing 40.37% of Premier League matches since joining in 2020 and suffering 15 setbacks, including seven hamstring injuries. The 2024/25 season was particularly frustrating, with Wilson starting just two Premier League games and scoring only once—in an FA Cup win against Birmingham City. Despite these setbacks, his goal-scoring efficiency remained remarkable, averaging a goal every 107 minutes in his last 51 Premier League appearances.
Eddie Howe, who described Wilson as “incredible” and a player who “epitomizes the spirit” of Newcastle, praised his professionalism and bravery. Wilson’s ability to perform under pressure, especially as the wearer of the storied number 9 shirt—a mantle carried by legends like Jackie Milburn and Alan Shearer—underscored his mental fortitude. His leadership in the dressing room and positivity off the pitch further endeared him to teammates and fans alike.
Callum Wilson. Goalscorer.
— Newcastle United (@NUFC) July 7, 2025
Thank you for the memories, CW9 🫡 pic.twitter.com/f19Qgu1Jlw
An Emotional Goodbye
Wilson’s departure was marked by an emotional farewell following Newcastle’s final game of the 2024/25 season, a 1-0 defeat to Everton. The striker took a solo lap of honor at St James’ Park, visibly moved as he waved to the fans, many of whom believed it signaled the end of his tenure. His statement on social media confirmed these sentiments: “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.”
Newcastle’s official statement echoed this gratitude: “From scoring on his debut against West Ham in 2020 to wearing the iconic number 9 shirt, Callum has played a huge part in our success in recent years and we thank him for all his contributions. Good luck for the future, CW9.” The tribute was accompanied by messages from fans and Newcastle legend Alan Shearer, who wrote on X, “Well done Callum and good luck going forward.”
Well done Callum and good luck going forward 🙏🏻🙋🏼♂️🖤🤍 https://t.co/evUzB3Rzhe
— Alan Shearer (@alanshearer) July 7, 2025
A Lasting Legacy
Wilson’s legacy at Newcastle is multifaceted. On the pitch, his 49 goals and 11 assists in 130 appearances tell the story of a reliable, clinical striker who delivered when fit. His 18-goal haul in 2022/23 was a cornerstone of Newcastle’s resurgence under Howe and the Saudi-backed ownership, transforming the club from relegation candidates to European contenders. Off the pitch, Wilson’s resilience shone through. He openly shared his struggles with mental health, revealing on the High Performance Podcast that football was his “saviour” during a childhood marked by poverty, foster care, and suicidal thoughts. His advocacy for therapy highlighted his role as a leader beyond the game.
Wilson’s connection with the fans was equally significant. Scoring at the Gallowgate End, as he noted, was a dream realized, and his emotional bond with the Toon Army was evident in his tearful farewell. His professionalism and commitment, even as injuries limited his playing time, earned him respect and admiration.
What’s Next for Wilson and Newcastle?
As a free agent, Wilson has attracted interest from clubs like Leeds United, Everton, West Ham, and even Wrexham, with his proven Premier League pedigree making him an attractive option despite his injury history. His experience in the Championship, where he scored 20 goals for Bournemouth in 2014/15, could make him a valuable addition for a promoted side like Leeds. Meanwhile, Wilson has already ventured into media, taking up a punditry role with DAZN for the Club World Cup and co-hosting The Footballer’s Football Podcast with Michail Antonio.
For Newcastle, Wilson’s exit heightens the urgency to bolster their attacking options. With only Alexander Isak and Will Osula as senior strikers, Eddie Howe is reportedly targeting a new forward, with names like Brighton’s Joao Pedro linked. The number 9 shirt, now vacant, carries immense weight, and its next wearer will face the challenge of living up to Wilson’s contributions.
Callum Wilson leaves Newcastle United as more than just a goalscorer. He was a symbol of hope during turbulent times, a leader who carried the weight of the number 9 shirt with pride, and a fan favorite whose connection with the Gallowgate End will be remembered fondly. His 49 goals, including those that secured Champions League football and a Carabao Cup, ensured his place in Newcastle’s history. As he embarks on the next chapter, the Toon Army will always hold a place for CW9 in their hearts, a testament to his enduring legacy at St James’ Park.
