Hatem Ben Arfa Fined for Weight Issues as Newcastle Prepares for New Season
Newcastle United midfielder Hatem Ben Arfa has reportedly been fined €2,000 after turning up 1.5kg overweight when the Magpies resumed pre-season training, according to reports from L’Equipe, citing Le Parisien. The club has declined to comment on the situation, while Ben Arfa himself insists that the additional weight is muscle gained during his holiday.
The Telegraph further suggests that the French international may be excluded from Newcastle’s upcoming training camp in New Zealand, although no official confirmation has been made.
Ben Arfa’s representatives have so far withheld comment, awaiting further clarity on the club’s stance. Last season, the former Marseille player featured sparingly, starting only 13 Premier League matches. With Newcastle’s preparations underway, the player’s fitness and future at the club remain under close scrutiny.
