Odysseas Vlachodimos left Newcastle United last summer with very little to show for his time on Tyneside, but the goalkeeper is now rebuilding his reputation in impressive fashion.
After being involved in the complex financial swap deal between Newcastle and Nottingham Forest one created to ease both clubs’ PSR concerns he arrived at St James’ Park as part of the arrangement that also saw Elliot Anderson move to Forest for £35 million.
Newcastle effectively paid £20 million in the process, but even with the money shuffling between clubs, it was clear that Vlachodimos was not someone Eddie Howe saw as part of his long-term plans.
The Greek international made only one appearance for Newcastle, spending most of his time stuck on the bench with no real pathway to minutes. When Sevilla approached in the summer with a loan offer, it was the lifeline he needed.
The move gave him an escape from a season of frustration and a chance to prove himself again in a league known for technical football and demanding goalkeeping standards.
So far, the switch has been a success. Vlachodimos has put together a strong run of form in Spain, and Sevilla are already considering making his stay permanent.
Financial hurdles may complicate any deal, but his performances are certainly pushing his value upward and turning the loan into a potential bargain for the Spanish club.
His growing confidence was on full display this weekend when he delivered a standout performance for Greece in their dramatic 3-2 win over Scotland.
Despite conceding twice, he played with authority and composure as Scotland threw everything at him in their attempt to qualify for next year’s World Cup. He made several key saves, including a crucial instinctive stop late in the game that helped Greece protect their narrow lead.
Greek outlet SDNA praised his showing, describing him as “excellent overall” while insisting he was not at fault for either Scotland goal. They highlighted his big save in the 79th minute and his ability to manage the pressure as Scotland pushed hard in stoppage time. Performances like this underline why his stock is rising again after such a frustrating year in England.
What seems certain now is that Vlachodimos has no future at Newcastle. Eddie Howe made his stance obvious by rarely using him even when he was available, and after a season spent away, there is no realistic chance that he will be reintegrated into the squad.
If Sevilla cannot meet Newcastle’s demands, another club may well step forward after witnessing the level he is showing for both club and country.
For a player once written off as a costly mistake, Vlachodimos is proving that careers can turn quickly with the right opportunity and his next move now looks far more promising than anyone would have predicted a year ago.
