Amanda Staveley Breaks Silence on Newcastle Exit: "A Debt I Owe"
Amanda Staveley, the 51-year-old businesswoman who played a crucial role in Newcastle United’s takeover by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) in 2021, has spoken out for the first time since stepping down from her role as co-owner of the club. Staveley, along with her husband Mehrdad Ghodoussi, announced their departure from the club on Friday, with both parties ceasing to be members of the board.
In a heartfelt message posted on her Instagram page, Staveley expressed her gratitude to the Newcastle faithful, saying: "Nothing I write today can ever express my gratitude or describe the debt I owe you all." She praised the club’s supporters, stating that "no fans deserve success more than you." Staveley also thanked the club’s staff, particularly Eddie Howe, Jason Tindall, and Becky Langley, Newcastle Women’s head coach, for their dedication and hard work.
Staveley’s statement comes after the Newcastle United board announced her departure from the club, citing a desire to "pursue other opportunities." The news has left fans and experts alike wondering what the future holds for the club, which has experienced a resurgence under Staveley’s guidance. As the club’s co-owner, Staveley was instrumental in brokering the deal that saw PIF take a majority stake in the Magpies.
Staveley’s departure from Newcastle United marks the end of an era for the club, which has undergone significant changes since the takeover. Under Staveley’s leadership, the club has invested heavily in its infrastructure, including the development of its women’s team, which turned professional in 2022 and earned promotion to the second tier Women’s Championship earlier this year.
As the club looks to the future, fans will be eager to see how the team will fare under new ownership. Staveley’s departure leaves a void, but her legacy at the club will be remembered for years to come. Follow us on all social media platforms for more updates on Newcastle United and the world of football.
Additional stats and analysis:
- Newcastle United’s takeover by PIF was valued at £300 million
- Staveley’s company, PCP Capital Partners, took a minority 10% stake in the club alongside her husband Mehrdad Ghodoussi
- The club’s women’s team has experienced significant growth under Staveley’s guidance, with the team earning promotion to the second tier Women’s Championship in 2023
- Newcastle United’s average attendance has increased by 20% since the takeover, with the club now averaging over 50,000 fans per match
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