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...
29. February 9 2023: Strawberry Place land goes back into club hands
Hope of a St James’ Park expansion received a major boost as it was confirmed that Newcastle had bought the Strawberry Place land back from developers. Previous owner Mike Ashley sold the parcel of land, located behind the Gallowgate End of the stadium, to developers for £9million in 2019. Newcastle City Council planners then controversially approved plans for a high-rise development on the land but the work was delayed, allowing the club to swoop in. The owners are aiming to expand St James’ Park in the coming years. | Getty Images
30. February 23 2023: Boardroom reshuffle
There were changes behind the scenes at Newcastle after club director Majed Al Sorour stepped down in December after seven months. A couple of months later, Abdulmajid Alhagbani and Asmaa Rezeeq were appointed to the Newcastle board alongside Yasir Al Rumayyan, Amanda Staveley and Jamie Reuben. | Getty Images
31. February 26 2023: Carabao Cup run and Wembley Stadium return
Newcastle reached its first major cup final in 24 years as they faced Manchester United in the Carabao Cup final. A memorable run saw Eddie Howe’s side beat Tranmere Rovers, Crystal Palace, Bournemouth, Leicester City and Southampton en route to the final. Newcastle fans ‘took over’ London during cup final weekend but the players weren’t able to get the job done on the pitch as they fell to a 2-0 defeat. Photo: Julian Finney