“Our ambition is aligned with the fans – to create a consistently successful team that’s regularly competing for major trophies and generates pride across the globe.”
Newcastle United’s new owners have issued their first statement since the takeover of the club was completed this [Thursday 7 October] evening.
The Saudi-backed consortium, led by Amanda Staveley, completed a deal worth in the region of £300 million which sees them take over at Newcastle with immediate effect, bringing an end to Mike Ashley’s 14-year ownership.
It will see the Public Investment Fund take an 80% majority stake in the club whilst Staveley and Jamie Reuben of RB Sports & Media take two separate 10% stakes each at St James’ Park.
In a statement on Newcastle United’s official club website, Yasir Al-Rumayyan, the governor of the PIF said: “We are extremely proud to become the new owners of Newcastle United, one of the most famous clubs in English football.
“We thank the Newcastle fans for their tremendously loyal support over the years and we are excited to work together with them.”
Staveley, Chief Executive Officer of PCP Capital Partners, insisted that the club would be united as one and that the project they have in mind for Newcastle is a long-term one.
She said: “This is a long-term investment. We are excited about the future prospects for Newcastle United.
“We intend to instill a united philosophy across the Club, establish a clear purpose, and help provide leadership that will allow Newcastle United to go on to big achievements over the long term.
𝗔𝗠𝗕𝗜𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡 👊
🗣 Amanda Staveley, Chief Executive Officer of PCP Capital Partners.
⚫️⚪️
— Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) October 7, 2021
“Our ambition is aligned with the fans – to create a consistently successful team that’s regularly competing for major trophies and generates pride across the globe.”
Reuben also stated that he is excited to begin the project and that they plan to work closely with the city of Newcastle to realise their ambitions.
“We look forward to a great future for Newcastle United” said Reuben.
“Newcastle is a fantastic city, which is why our family has been investing heavily in the area for many years. To become part of this great Club and its amazing fans is a privilege.
“We will build a true community Club, based upon our family’s knowledge of the city and in line with our plans that have been worked on closely with Newcastle City Council to deliver long-term sustainable growth for the area.”
Related links:
- Would you welcome a despotic regime to your club if it meant Champions League football?
- Premier League confirm Saudi-backed takeover of Newcastle United
- Widow of assassinated journalist urges Premier League not to ‘cave in’ to Saudi Newcastle takeover
