When billionaire Ashley completed a takeover of the club in 2007, optimism was high. There was a belief he’d take the Magpies to new heights.
But as we all know, his ownership proved to be a the complete opposite. A disaster, to say the least, as fans endured two relegations to the Championship – and a number of shocking decisions.
Here, we take a look at the 20 most controversial Ashley moments after he packed his bags and sold the club to PCP Partners, the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia and the Reuben brothers:
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17. The departure of Rafa Benitez
Even despite the pain caused by Ashley over the years, Benitez helped fans believe greater times were ahead. The Spaniard pushed and pushed for the investment needed to get Newcastle challenging higher up the Premier League table but was ultimately left disappointed by a stubborn Ashley and left when his contract expired in July 2019. Photo: LINDSEY PARNABY
18. Appointing Steve Bruce
Newcastle fans did not want Bruce from the start but that didn’t prevent Ashley as he paid compensation to Sheffield Wednesday to appoint him. Photo: Stu Forster
19. The sale of Strawberry Place
Ashley sold the land right next to St James’s Park for just £9m in November 2019, impacting the iconic view of the ground and potential further development of the 52,000-seater stadium. Photo: Alex Livesey
20. His last summer transfer window
Newcastle’s only summer signing was Joe Willock, previously on loan, meaning United were the only in the Premier League not to strengthen its squad. Same old, same old… but now, Ashley is no more. Photo: Catherine Ivill