October 7, 2021 is a date that will live long in the memory of many a Newcastle fan as Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, PCP Capital Partners and RB Sports & Media finally took over the club.
Fans took to St James’s Park to rejoice the departure of former owner Mike Ashley after 14 years and also the hope of a brighter future on Tyneside.
The 12 months that have followed the takeover have arguably been one of the best years for the club in recent memory.
Transfer records have been broken, changes have been made and the good times have returned to St James’s Park.
Here are 24 key moments that define the first year of Newcastle United under new ownership...
5. December 4 2021: Newcastle pick up first Premier League win
After starting the season with a 14 game winless run, Newcastle finally picked up their first win of the campaign and first win under new ownership as Callum Wilson’s strike secured a 1-0 triumph over relegation rivals Burnley. No team had ever stayed up after failing to win any of their opening 14 games, but this would be the season where Newcastle bucked the trend. Photo: Ian MacNicol
6. December 6-9 2021: Sports Direct signage removed at St James’s Park
Mike Ashley was gone but the unsightly Sports Direct logos were still emblazoned across all areas of St James’s Park almost as a mocking stain of his 14 year ownership. But two months after the takeover, the signage was finally taken down at St James’ Park - a liberating move from the owners. Photo: Stu Forster
7. January 8 2022: FA Cup humiliation
It wasn’t quite plain sailing during the opening months of the new ownership and Eddie Howe’s tenure as manager. A difficult run of results over the festive period peaked with a 1-0 FA Cup third round humiliation to League One side Cambridge United in front of a sold out St James’ Park. But the fact The Magpies were able to sell out the stadium for a early round cup match against lower-level opposition showed a new-found hunger amongst the fan base. The result was a low point in the season, but also something of a turning point as Howe’s side would lose just one more game at home. Photo: Stu Forster
8. January 23-29 2022: Saudi Arabia visit
A trip that Eddie Howe has highlighted as a turning point in Newcastle’s season. A PR opportunity for the club under new ownership but also a crucial change for players to bond and unify heading into a crucial final few months of the season. Heading out to Saudi Arabia on the back of a vital 1-0 win at Leeds kept the feel good factor growing as Newcastle put together a fine run of form on their return. | NUFC TV