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...
13. May 11 2022: Premier League safety secured
Something that looked unlikely at the start of the year came to full fruition with two games left to play as Leeds United’s 3-0 defeat to Chelsea mathematically guaranteed Newcastle’s survival in the Premier League. Although the side had been comfortable for the past couple of months, to see it in black and white was a big moment that further highlighted the progress that had been made over such a short period. Photo: Tony Johnson
14. May 1 2022: Newcastle United Women at St James’ Park
A significant moment for women’s football saw Newcastle set a new domestic attendance record at the time as a crowd of 22,134 watched a historic first game at St James’s Park in May. Becky Langley’s side beat Alnwick Town 4-0. Co-owner Amanda Staveley has spoken of her passion to progress the women’s game on Tyneside and this was an important step that would lead to the Lady Magpies officially becoming part of the club over the summer. They played again at St James’ in November 2022. Photo: Stu Forster
15. May 16 2022: Newcastle end season at St James’ Park on a high
Spirits were high as Newcastle welcomed Arsenal to St James’ Park in what would be their final home match of the season. With survival already guaranteed, the pressure was effectively off The Magpies while Arsenal were still vying for a Champions League spot. As things happened, Newcastle would end up playing The Gunners off the park and securing a well-deserved 2-0 win with what was arguably their performance of the season. It was also a sign that Eddie Howe’s side were capable of competing with some of the better sides in the division. Following the match, players and owners took to the field to engage in a well deserved lap of honour. Matches under the lights at St James’ Park, there’s nothing quite like it. | Getty Images
16. May 17: Shearer’s statue moved
Similar to the Shearer’s Bar move, moving the Newcastle icon’s statue out of the shadows and into clear view alongside Sir Bobby Robson’s statue in front of St James’s Park was a positive move. | NW