David Ginola Reveals Reluctance Over Tottenham Transfer Due to Newcastle Exit

David Ginola has opened up about his transfer to Tottenham Hotspur, revealing that he originally never intended to leave Newcastle United. The move came only after a fallout with then-manager Kenny Dalglish, who replaced Kevin Keegan at St. James’ Park. In a new book about Newcastle’s “Entertainers” era, Ginola shared that he clashed with Dalglish almost immediately, leading to his departure.

“I didn’t want to leave the club, but when Kenny Dalglish took over from Kevin, it was a shock, and it just wasn’t the same anymore,” Ginola told The Shields Gazette. “I argued with Kenny, and he didn’t play me much after that.”

Ginola, who earned 17 caps for France, expressed frustration over Dalglish’s handling of Keegan’s former players: “He tried to get rid of all the foreign players Kevin signed. I was frustrated at the time and said in the newspapers that if things didn’t change, I would have to leave. The following day, we had a row. He told me I couldn’t go to the newspapers and say these things. I said, ‘You treat me like I’m having an affair with your wife.’”

The exchange escalated as Dalglish allegedly responded, “How dare you talk to me like that,” to which Ginola replied, “At least I’m talking. You never look at me or talk to me.” Reflecting on the atmosphere under Keegan, Ginola added, “Under Kevin, it was such a pleasure every day in training and every Saturday at St. James’ Park, where the atmosphere was magnificent. I miss those days. One day, those happy days will return.”