The Impact of the Takeover at Newcastle United
Mike Ashley’s 14-year tenure as divisive owner of Newcastle United was ended on October 8th 2021 following the completion of the protracted takeover by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF).
Although there have been some reservations from a moralistic standpoint, the takeover was widely celebrated across Tyneside with a jubilant throng of Newcastle fans gathering outside St. James’ Park to share their joy with fellow supporters.
How Will the Takeover Impact the Club and the Premier League?
Manager
Steve Bruce celebrated his 1000th game as a manager on October 17th, however, the affable Geordie has now been relieved of his duties. The former Crystal Palace and Birmingham boss had helped to steady the ship and although his preferred style of play was been derided by many fans, he managed to keep the club afloat throughout his tumultuous spell in the north east. Many fans will now be hoping for a high-profile appointment in the coming weeks with former Bournemouth boss Eddie Howe linked with the vacancy.
Betting Odds and Expectation
Prior to the takeover, the majority of online bookmakers had priced up Newcastle as relegation candidates, however, the injection of fresh funds has changed many people’s perspective on their chances of climbing the table. As detailed in 22Bet review online betting sites now offer multiple outright and ante-post Premier League markets, and as a result, 22Bet are just one of the many online bookmakers who have slashed the price on the Magpies to finish in the top half of the table.
With the club having finished 12th, 13th, 13th and 10th across their last four seasons, supporters are now expecting to see their club challenge for the place in the top six. These raised expectations are likely to filter through to the incoming manager, who will be under pressure if he is unable to deliver a better finish than his predecessor.
Premier League
Although Newcastle’s European challenge is unlikely to materialize immediately, PIF’s takeover is likely to increase competition at the top end of the table. This is likely to increase standards across the board and clubs such as Manchester United, Arsenal and Spurs will be forced to up their game following a short period of stagnation. With Leicester and West Ham having gatecrashed the European spots in recent seasons, the battle for a place in the top four could be a fascinating spectacle over the next few years.
Squad and Signings
Newcastle fans were left overwhelmingly disappointed by their side’s lack of activity in the summer transfer market. Joe Willock, who was on loan at the club last season, was the only August arrival and many supporters were worried about the squad’s lack of depth.
Although the club cannot make any additions until January 2022, they have been linked with a number of high-profile players in recent weeks. However, the Magpies will need to improve upon their current position in order to attract a higher calibre of player once the transfer window opens.
There are some obvious gaps in the Newcastle squad, and this must be addressed before any world-class additions can be acquired.
Potential Problems and Issues
Many Newcastle supporters are expecting an immediate impact, although fans must learn to be patient. PIF have reportedly set a modest budget of £50m for the January transfer window and this is unlikely to result in an influx of high-profile additions.
Sheikh Mansour’s takeover of Manchester City was completed in 2008, however, the Citizens were unable to break into the top four until 2010-11 campaign. This breakthrough campaign was followed by the infamous title-winning 2011-12 season.
This is likely to act as a useful blueprint for Newcastle United, who may look to follow a similar path. However, with a modest budget having been set for January, it remains to be seen whether PIF are willing to fund such lavish purchases over the next couple of seasons.
