Amar Dedic has revealed that the 'big energy' he felt from Newcastle United supporters during his visit to St James' Park with Benfica last season played a significant part in his decision to move to Tyneside. The 24-year-old completed his £29.5million transfer from Benfica on Tuesday morning.
In his first interview since the move was confirmed, Dedic also explained the pull of reuniting with Matthias Jaissle, under whom he enjoyed success at RB Salzburg. The Bosnia and Herzegovina international, primarily a right-back who can also play on the left, has signed a five-year contract at St James' Park.
St James' Park atmosphere left a lasting impression
Having played for RB Salzburg, Marseille, and Benfica, Dedic is now excited to experience the Premier League for the first time. After playing for Benfica in a 3-0 defeat to the Magpies at St James' Park last season, he knows exactly what to expect from the famous atmosphere on Tyneside.
"I played last year here so I felt already how much passion is here from the fans and it is an amazing feeling to play in that stadium and it is a huge club," Dedic told Newcastle United's official website. "So I want to play for them, to fight for them and, of course, the Premier League is the best league and I hope we are going to be successful and that is my motivation here."
"It was really an amazing game. It was a nice atmosphere and I felt the energy. There is a big energy there, the fans love the game and that is why I love it and wanted to come here. The memories from the last time. I hope we are going to have the same energy now."
Reunion with Jaissle a key factor
Dedic was given his breakthrough at RB Salzburg by Jaissle, who showed faith in him after a positive loan spell at Wolfsberger AC. Together, they won the Austrian Bundesliga in 2023 before Jaissle moved on to take charge of Al-Ahli. The right-back remained in Austria and became club captain before moves to Marseille and Benfica, but the idea of reuniting with the German boss on Tyneside was another huge factor in his decision.
"I am really happy to meet him again because I know him from the past," Dedic said of Jaissle. "It worked really well and he is a guy who has a lot of energy and gives his best so that is why I wanted to join and I can't wait to play for him and the club."
"He pushed me and always told me the truth, even when I played bad, and he is a coach who is passionate and gave me time to play and time to grow."
Playing style and commitment to fans
Dedic has also offered Newcastle fans an insight into his playing style, promising he will 'fight for them' during his time at the club. "I think in the offensive game is what I really like with my style of play and a lot of energy, fast runs and dribbling. I like to fight for the club, for the fans and I hope I will show that as well."
"I will fight for them, I will show my best and I can't wait to see them there because I know how they are passionate. I will give and I will fight."
