After nine years at the club, Isaac Hayden is no longer a Newcastle United player.
In a club statement on Saturday morning, Newcastle have announced that the 30-year-old has now departed as a free agent.
Hayden had one year left on his deal, which was due to expire in 2026, but it appears a mutual agreement has been reached between the player and club to find an early exit.
The midfielder arrived from Arsenal back in 2016, joining ahead of our Championship-winning campaign under Rafa Benitez before going on to make 171 appearances.
Hayden has not played for the club in several seasons and will now be hoping to land a permanent contract in the second tier, after recent loan spells with Portsmouth, Standard Liege, QPR and Norwich.
In a personal statement on social media, Hayden has reflected on his time on Tyneside and said an ‘official goodbye’ after several years away from Eddie Howe’s first team plans:
> _‘Magpies, it’s time to officially say goodbye._
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> _‘Although we’ve not seen each other recently, I just wanted to say a massive thank you for all the support over the years._ _I have had some incredible memories wearing the shirt and playing at St James’ Park._
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> _‘I wish everyone associated with the club nothing but the best for the future._
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> _‘Thank you to all the players, coaches and backroom staff during my tenure._ _Onto the next chapter.’_
He perhaps stayed a year or two too long for the sake of his playing career, but Hayden was a solid character, tough tackler and big part of our return to the top flight under Rafa Benitez. He always gave his all and never hid.
A [club statement](https://www.newcastleunited.com/en/news/isaac-hayden-departs-newcastle-united) confirming Hayden’s departure on Saturday 2nd August reads:
‘Newcastle United midfielder Isaac Hayden has departed the club as a free agent.
‘The 30-year-old joined the Magpies in 2016 after starting his professional career with Arsenal and, during his time at St. James’ Park, the midfielder made 171 appearances for the club in all competitions.
‘Most recently, he spent the second half of the 2024/25 season on loan with Championship side Portsmouth after spells with Standard Liège and Queens Park Rangers during the last campaign.
‘Everyone at the club thanks Isaac for his efforts while with Newcastle United and wishes him well for the future.’