When the Saudi-led consortium completed the takeover of Newcastle United in October 2021, it marked a seismic shift not just for the club but for the entire footballing landscape. The £305 million deal, backed by the Public Investment Fund (PIF) of Saudi Arabia, transformed Newcastle from a mid-table Premier League struggler into one of the richest clubs in the world. Over two years later, the question on everyone’s mind is: What’s changed since the Newcastle takeover? The answer is a lot—on and off the pitch.
On the Pitch: From Survival to Ambition
Before the takeover, Newcastle United was a club mired in mediocrity. Under former owner Mike Ashley, the Magpies were often fighting relegation battles, with limited investment in players and infrastructure. The appointment of Eddie Howe as manager shortly after the takeover signaled a new era of ambition. Howe’s tactical acumen, combined with strategic signings, has transformed the team’s fortunes.
Newcastle’s squad has seen a significant overhaul. Big-money signings like Bruno Guimarães, Alexander Isak, and Sandro Tonali have brought quality and depth to the team. The club’s recruitment strategy has been smart, focusing on young, talented players with high resale value. This approach has not only improved performances but also positioned Newcastle as an attractive destination for top-tier talent.
The results speak for themselves. In the 2022-23 season, Newcastle secured a top-four finish, qualifying for the UEFA Champions League for the first time in two decades. Their style of play has evolved into an exciting, attacking brand of football, earning plaudits from fans and pundits alike. The days of scraping for survival are long gone; Newcastle is now a club with genuine aspirations of competing for silverware.
Off the Pitch: A Club Reimagined
The takeover has also brought about a dramatic transformation off the pitch. The club’s infrastructure is undergoing a massive upgrade, with plans for a state-of-the-art training facility and improvements to St. James’ Park. These investments are aimed at creating a world-class environment for players and staff, ensuring sustained success in the long term.
Commercial revenues have also skyrocketed. New sponsorship deals, including a controversial but lucrative agreement with Saudi-backed companies, have injected significant funds into the club. While these deals have drawn criticism and scrutiny over concerns of sportswashing, they have undeniably strengthened Newcastle’s financial position, allowing them to compete with Europe’s elite.
The fan experience has been revitalized too. The atmosphere at St. James’ Park is electric, with supporters buoyed by the club’s newfound ambition. Attendances are consistently high, and the Toon Army has been rewarded with a team that reflects their passion and pride.
Challenges and Controversies
Despite the progress, the takeover has not been without its challenges. Critics have raised ethical concerns about the Saudi ownership, citing the country’s human rights record and the potential for sportswashing. These issues have sparked debates about the role of money and geopolitics in football, with Newcastle often at the center of the storm.
Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations have also posed a hurdle. While the club’s owners are among the wealthiest in the world, they must navigate FFP rules to avoid sanctions. This has necessitated a measured approach to spending, balancing ambition with compliance.
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future
As Newcastle United continues its journey under Saudi ownership, the future looks incredibly bright. The club’s rise has been rapid, but there is a sense that this is just the beginning. With a talented squad, a visionary manager, and the backing of wealthy owners, Newcastle is poised to become a dominant force in English and European football.
The takeover has not only changed the fortunes of Newcastle United but has also reshaped the Premier League’s power dynamics. The Magpies are no longer underdogs; they are contenders. And as the club continues to grow, one thing is clear: the Newcastle takeover has changed everything.
For the fans, the players, and the city of Newcastle, the journey is only just beginning. The Toon Army’s dreams of glory, once distant, are now within reach. And that, perhaps, is the most significant change of all.
