The sale of Newcastle United to Saudi Arabia’s PIF on October 7, 2021, sparked a major turnaround in the club’s fortunes. A crucial victory over Leeds United in January 2021 marked the beginning of Newcastle’s revival under Eddie Howe. The team secured their first major trophy in 55 years with a Carabao Cup win in March 2023, showcasing the effectiveness of strategic changes and investments.
On January 22, 2021, Newcastle United’s supporters experienced a pivotal moment during their Premier League match against Leeds United. With time running out and the score at 0-0, Jonjo Shelvey scored a crucial goal, leading to a 1-0 victory that significantly shifted the team’s momentum. This victory marked the beginning of a remarkable turnaround for Newcastle, which had previously found itself in the relegation zone due to a poor season.
Following that vital win, under the guidance of manager Eddie Howe, Newcastle secured five victories in their next six matches and ultimately finished the season in 11th place, far from the relegation threat. This remarkable turnaround came about after the club was sold by long-time owner Mike Ashley, allowing for a new era to commence. The ownership transition was completed on October 7, 2021, when Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) took control, alongside partners Amanda Staveley’s PCP Capital Partners and the Reuben Brothers.
Despite facing challenges in recent years, Newcastle United fans had little to celebrate since the mid-1990s, when the team narrowly missed out on winning the Premier League. The new ownership aimed not only to build a competitive football team but also to rejuvenate the surrounding community. Hiring Eddie Howe on November 8, 2021, was a critical first step, as he had previously achieved remarkable success with Bournemouth FC.
As part of a robust rebuilding strategy, Newcastle acquired several key players without resorting to extravagant spending on superstars. Significant signings included Kieran Trippier, Chris Wood, and the notable Bruno Guimaraes from Lyon, who quickly won the hearts of fans. Howe succeeded in revitalizing previously stagnant players such as Joelinton, Sean Longstaff, and Miguel Almiron, which contributed to the team’s escape from relegation.
After solidifying their position in the Premier League, the summer transfer window of 2022 saw further strengthening of the squad with notable additions like goalkeeper Nick Pope and defenders Sven Botman and Alexander Isak. This created a formidable team that regrouped to contend for trophies during the 2022-23 season. A cup final appearance marked a successful period for the club, although they faced defeat against Manchester United.
Despite exiting the Champions League during group stages in the 2023 season, Newcastle ended the Premier League campaign in fourth place, securing a spot in the UEFA Champions League for the next season. The 2023 season aimed at consolidation saw new signings, yet balancing multiple competitions proved challenging. A memorable victory over Paris Saint-Germain was overshadowed by disappointment in not advancing in Europe.
However, resurgence was evident as Newcastle reached the Carabao Cup final against Liverpool, a match that marked a historic moment for the club. On March 16, the team delivered a stellar performance resulting in a 2-1 victory, claiming their first major trophy in 55 years and providing an extraordinary reminder of their transformation since the tumultuous days of 2021.
The sale of Newcastle United to Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund has been transformative for the club, marked by significant victories and renewed hope among supporters. Under the managerial guidance of Eddie Howe, the team not only avoided relegation but went on to secure a trophy after 55 years. This turnaround exemplifies the potential of strategic management and investment to elevate a once-struggling club to competitive prominence in English football.
Original Source: www.arabnews.pk
