Georgian Teen Sensation Vakhtang Salia Sets His Sights on a Bright Future at Newcastle

Seventeen-year-old Georgian forward Vakhtang Salia is set to swap Dinamo Tbilisi’s training fields for the renowned St James’ Park, home of Newcastle United.

The young striker, affectionately known as Vakho, was with his mates when he received the exciting news about his move to the Premier League club. He plans to relocate to England just before his 18th birthday in August.

For Salia, who started kicking a ball at the age of four and made his senior debut for Dinamo Tbilisi in Georgia’s top division just a year ago, signing for a club in the Premier League feels like a dream realised.

“I couldn’t believe it at first. Even now, it feels surreal. Playing there has always been my dream,” he expressed.

Salia is part of an emerging wave of talented young Georgian players, putting the South Caucasus nation of 3.7 million on the global football map, following its independence from the Soviet Union in 1991.

In a recent chat with Reuters, Salia noted that he looks up to players like Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Georges Mikautadze, who made a notable impact during Georgia’s first major tournament, Euro 2024. The team was knocked out by eventual champions Spain in the Round of 16.

Remarkably, during the Euros, Georgia—ranked lowest in the competition—managed to secure a 2-0 victory over Portugal, led by the legendary Cristiano Ronaldo, another one of Salia’s footballing idols, with Kvaratskhelia and Mikautadze netting the goals.

Looking ahead, Salia is also eager to represent Georgia on the national stage.

“Football in Georgia is growing rapidly,” he stated. “It’s every Georgian’s aspiration to see our country compete in the World Cup and the Euros. I hope to be part of the national team one day as well.”

Vladimer Kakashvili, head coach of Dinamo Tbilisi, believes Salia possesses all the qualities needed to match his more seasoned peers, despite the Premier League’s demands being a significant leap.

“It’s clear that English football is currently among the finest in Europe, with incredibly high pace and physical demands, and Vakho will require some time to acclimatise,” Kakashvili commented.

He further noted that Salia’s early career at Dinamo Tbilisi has set him up well to succeed in England.

“When a young player earns a spot in the first team, it reflects undeniable talent, a commitment to improvement, and professionalism at a high level,” he added.

“With his remarkable talent, strong work ethic, and determination, I believe he can compete at any level without issue.”