Newcastle United co-owners Amanda Staveley and Mehrdad Ghodoussi have decided to leave the club after three impactful years. Staveley, 51, was instrumental in the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund’s (PIF) acquisition of an 80% stake in Newcastle for £300 million in 2021. She played a crucial role in negotiating with former owner Mike Ashley, ending his 14-year tenure.
Ownership and Stake Changes
Following the deal, Staveley’s Cantervale Holdings acquired a 10% stake, with Jamie Reuben’s RB Sports & Media taking the remaining 10%. Over time, Staveley’s stake was reduced to 5.7% while Reuben’s increased to 14.3%. During a challenging period when Newcastle was 19th in the Premier League and winless under Steve Bruce, Staveley ambitiously predicted the club could win the Premier League within five years. In just 18 months, she helped orchestrate the club’s return to the Champions League after a 20-year hiatus.
Reports of Departure
According to various sources, including The Shields Gazette, Staveley and Ghodoussi are set to end their association with Newcastle. It is expected that PIF or RB Sports & Media will purchase their remaining stake, with an official statement from the club anticipated soon.
READ ALSO
Lewis Hall Completes Permanent Move from Chelsea to Newcastle United
Behind-the-Scenes Influence
Despite her minority stake, Staveley has been a significant figure behind the scenes, serving as the main communication link between the ownership and supporters. Her role was prominently featured in the Amazon series “We Are Newcastle United,” which provided an inside look at life in the boardroom. She was also a key player in securing midfielder Joelinton’s future with a new four-year deal.
Newcastle’s Upward Trajectory
Since Staveley’s arrival, Newcastle has seen substantial progress. Under Eddie Howe’s management and bolstered by key signings such as Bruno Guimaraes, Kieran Trippier, Sven Botman, Nick Pope, Alexander Isak, and Anthony Gordon, the club qualified for the Champions League and reached their first major cup final since 1999. Despite last season’s challenges, including injuries and Sandro Tonali’s long-term suspension, Newcastle achieved notable victories against PSG, Aston Villa, Tottenham, Arsenal, and Manchester United.
Financial and Loan Details
Staveley’s decision to sell her stake follows the club’s latest accounts revealing £1.2 million in loans to her. These include a £600,000 interest-free loan in November 2022 for legal fees, which remained outstanding as of June 2023, and an additional £659,056 loaned on August 31, 2023. Senior club sources have confirmed that these loans will be repaid in full.
Club’s Future Outlook
As Newcastle prepares for the future, the departure of Staveley and Ghodoussi marks the end of a significant chapter in the club’s history. Their contributions have set a foundation for continued success, with the club aiming to build on the momentum created during their tenure.