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...
9. January 1-31 2022: First transfer window under new ownership
Make no mistake, the January transfer window was vital in ensuring Newcastle survived in the Premier League. The signing of Kieran Trippier from Atletico Madrid early in the window was a statement of things to come from United as they bolstered their squad with the further additions of Chris Wood, Bruno Guimaraes, Matt Targett and Dan Burn. All five players played a crucial role in keeping the club in the Premier League. | AFP via Getty Images
10. February 8 2022: Win over Everton
Following the return from Saudi Arabia, Newcastle picked up a significant 3-1 win over Everton, coming from 1-0 down. Kieran Trippier’s first goal for the club in only his second league start raised the roof at St James’s Park. The win was particularly important as it saw Newcastle move out of the relegation zone, and they wouldn’t return. Photo: Stu Forster
11. March 11 2022: Eddie Howe named Premier League manager of the month for February
February was the month it really all changed for Newcastle on the pitch. Wins over Everton, Aston Villa, Brentford and a draw at West Ham United saw The Magpies fly up to 14th in the table. Safety wasn’t quite secured just yet, but they were a team to be feared once again. Eddie Howe was rewarded for his side’s efforts with a manager of the month win. | Getty Images
12. March 15 2022: Shearer’s Bar returns
One in a series of popular moves off the pitch by the club’s owners. The return of Shearer’s Bar for the first time since 2013 was a simple yet effective move as NINE Sports Bar & Lounge reverted back to its former name. | NW