Nick Pope reflects on leadership role and contract revelation at Newcastle United
Nick Pope has spoken of his pride after being voted into Newcastle United’s leadership group, underlining his growing importance within Eddie Howe’s squad.
The England international has been ever-present this season, starting in all but one of the Magpies’ 13 competitive matches, and has now stepped into a senior role following Callum Wilson’s departure from St James’ Park earlier this summer.
Wilson’s exit left a vacancy within the club’s leadership team, which helps set professional standards off the pitch and provides a voice for the dressing room. Pope joins existing members Jamaal Lascelles, Kieran Trippier, Dan Burn, Jacob Murphy, and Bruno Guimaraes, forming a six-man leadership group for the 2025/26 campaign.
Howe confirmed last month that players would vote on who would take Wilson’s place, with Pope emerging as the squad’s chosen representative. Reflecting on his appointment, the goalkeeper said he was honoured to have earned the trust of his teammates.
“It’s really exciting to be part of the group,” Pope wrote in his matchday programme. “Any time you’re voted in by your fellow players, it’s a proud moment.
“I’ve been here for three years now, so I’m delighted they’ve chosen me to represent them. We’ve got a great mix of personalities and experiences within the group — players who’ve come from different clubs and been here for different periods. That blend helps the squad stay united.
“I’ve been around football long enough to have seen plenty of situations, and hopefully I can use that experience to support the younger lads.”
Pope reveals secret contract extension
Alongside his new leadership responsibilities, Pope also confirmed he quietly signed a contract extension at St James’ Park — more than a year ago.
Having originally joined Newcastle from Burnley in 2022 on a four-year deal, it was believed the 32-year-old was entering the final year of his contract. However, the club recently confirmed that the goalkeeper is now tied down until July 2027.
Pope revealed that he had actually signed the extension in July 2023, keeping the news private until recently.
“It’s funny because I actually signed it back in July 2023,” Pope smiled. “I was really happy about it then, and now my contract runs until 2027.
“This club just keeps moving forward — every transfer window, every few months you can feel the growth. Whether it’s new players, upgrades around the training ground, or just our progress as a team, there’s always development. It’s great to be part of that journey.
“You want to stay involved as long as possible. We’ve already got that first trophy under our belt, qualified for the Champions League twice, and now we’re pushing to keep doing it again and again.”
Pope’s steady performances, leadership presence, and long-term commitment have made him one of Eddie Howe’s most trusted figures — both on and off the pitch — as Newcastle continue to build toward sustained success domestically and in Europe.
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