“Like a big brother to me” – Newcastle United success credited to Magpies teammates

Habib Beye had spent two years at Newcastle United between 2007 and 2009 during his playing career.

The Frenchman joined the Magpies from Marseille. Earlier this month, the Ligue 1 side have appointed as Roberto de Zerbi’s successor.

Friday’s edition of La Provence, a newspaper local to the French club, reviews his career and Newcastle United are part of it.

On Thursday, former Arsenal star Robert Pires urged Marseille to have patience with their new manager. He used the Gunners’ decision to not part ways with Mikel Arteta early on as an example.

How Newcastle United tempted Beye

La Provence explain that during his playing career, finances motivated Beye to leave the Ligue 1 side for the Magpies in 2007.

Sam Allardyce was in charge when he arrived at St James’ Park. The newspaper say he personally pushed to sign Beye and Newcastle United made a big salary offer, which was impossible for him to refuse.

Back in 2021, the 48-year-old said he was the top earner at Marseille, but the Premier League increased it 2.5 times.

The former defender played 54 matches for the Tyneside club, and their supporters voted him as the Player of the Year in his debut season.

Beye left Newcastle United for Aston Villa in 2009 and in his final season at St James’ Park, he played alongside Sébastien Bassong.

Marseille boss’ impact at PL side

La Provence have now relayed Bassong’s comments, with him praising the new Marseille manage’s impact at Newcastle United.

“In a dressing room full of stars nearing the end of their careers, he was respected and took responsibility,” he said.

“He was himself and brought a zest for life and always loved connecting with the fans. He needs that showman, extroverted side.”

Bassong was at Newcastle United only for one season but still felt Beye’s impact. In fact, the Frenchman credits the former right-back for his successful spell with the Premier League side.

“He was like a big brother to me, the one who looked after me. I often slept at his place. I didn’t have a car, so he lent me his. Since I didn’t have much money, he bought me my first watch. I paid him back little by little each month. He, Charles N’zogbia and I were a trio. Without him, I wouldn’t have had such a great year at Newcastle. He played a huge part in my success,” Bassong explained.