Former Newcastle United goalkeeper Tim Krul has backed the new Magpies signing, a £26m goalkeeper, to be an improvement on long-serving shot-stopper Nick Pope.
Pope had established himself as Newcastle’s first-choice goalkeeper after arriving from Burnley in 2022. However, the 34-year-old has now slipped down the pecking order following the club’s decision to bring in Hornicek and Ewen Jaouen during the summer transfer window.
Jaouen, 20, joined Newcastle from French club Stade de Reims in a deal worth around £18 million. He arrived with the expectation that he would serve as the club’s number two goalkeeper while also receiving opportunities in domestic cup competitions.
Hornicek’s arrival came with greater expectations. The Czech Republic international reportedly received assurances regarding his position in the team before turning down interest from elsewhere and completing a £26 million transfer from Braga.
The 23-year-old has wasted little time making his mark, starting Newcastle’s first five Premier League matches of the campaign.
His performances have also been reflected in the statistics. Hornicek currently ranks second in the Premier League for saves, behind Leeds United goalkeeper James Trafford, who had previously been linked with a move to Newcastle.
Tim Krul backs Hornicek
Krul knows plenty about Newcastle’s goalkeeping department, having made 185 appearances for the club during his career.
The former Netherlands international remains a supporter of Pope and recognises the quality the veteran goalkeeper possesses. However, he believes Hornicek offers a more complete skill set.
“Pope was already a very good goalkeeper, but Hornicek brings a completely different style,” Krul said.
The former Newcastle goalkeeper highlighted Hornicek’s ability with the ball at his feet and his willingness to operate outside his penalty area.
“He is more complete, particularly with his distribution and his ability to play as a sweeper-keeper. He also looks very agile,” Krul added.
According to the former Magpies goalkeeper, Newcastle’s sizeable investment in Hornicek demonstrates the club’s belief in his long-term potential.
The change in the goalkeeping hierarchy leaves Pope facing an uncertain future at St James’ Park.
The Englishman came close to leaving Newcastle for Ipswich Town in June, but the proposed transfer collapsed following Kieran McKenna’s departure from the club.
Newcastle were still prepared to consider offers for Pope after that move fell through, but no suitable proposal ultimately arrived.
For now, Hornicek appears firmly established as Newcastle’s first-choice goalkeeper, while Pope has been pushed further down the pecking order.
