Livescore
Mike Ashley‘s takeover of Newcastle in 2007 clipped the Magpies’ wings. The historic club from the north of England were deal a huge blow after Alan Shearer‘s retirement and were relegated twice to the Championship in 2009 and 2016.
However, Newcastle have managed to bounce back after the Saudi Arabian consortium took over back in October 2021. They now sit third in the Premier League table behind Arsenal and Manchester City.
Coach Eddie Howe succeeded Steve Bruce in November 2021 and has helped the team improve significantly.
The main challenge for the team is to compete for a European spot, as they haven’t played in Europe since 2013, with their last Champions League game being in 2003.
Newcastle spent 101.1m euros in signings last January to bring in players such as Bruno Guimaraes, Kieran Trippier, Chris Wood, Dan Burn and Matt Targett.
They’ve also invested a further 185 million euros to sign talented footballers such as Sven Botman, Nick Pope and Alexander Isak this season. Newcastle have managed to turn the so-called Big-6 into a Big-7.
The Magpies have reached the Carabao Cup final that will take place at Wembley on February 26. This will be their first final since 1999, when they lost to Manchester United in the FA Cup.
The last time they won a title was back in 1969, when they clinched the Fairs Cup.
“The merit of the new directors is that they are being patient,” club legend Nolberto Solano says.
“To compete with the big teams, you have to be financially strong. The signings have worked and provided stability.
“And they trusted in a young coach, who knew all the divisions in England and has activated the group.
“They are building to compete for the league title in the future, although the first thing is to get into Europe. They are on the right path.”
A solid team
Marcelino Elena, who coincided with Solano at St James’ Park, likened this Newcastle side to Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool.
“For their intensity, they remind me of the best Liverpool [side] under Klopp,” he noted.
“A super-solid defense, pressing high up the pitch, stealing close to the opponent’s area and being very effective. They are a whirlwind. It’s a pleasure to watch them.”
“Howe deserves lots of credit. He has brought in the perfect players for his style, achieving an immediate performance and getting the most out of those who were already there.”
That’s what Newcastle press believes
The Chronicle’s Ciaran Kelly talked to MARCA to explain how Newcastle managed to turn their situation around.
“Howe never set limits or targets,” he noted.
“They have spent wisely, signing the right players, who have strengthened the squad. Most of the players were already there and have been reborn. And that togetherness has transformed Newcastle.”
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