Newcastle United CEO David Hopkinson had some interesting questions for owners PIF before he was appointed at the club in September.
Over the course of a dramatic summer transfer window, questions were asked of PIF for the first time since they bought Newcastle United from Mike Ashley in October 2021.
A distinct lack of updates on a new training ground and a new stadium have frustrated supporters, as did the painful nature of the summer transfer window.
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The likes of Alexander Isak questioned PIF’s ambition at Newcastle before he left the club for Liverpool in acrimonious circumstances.
Eddie Howe has insisted that PIF remain ambitious, however, and Hopkinson’s comments thankfully appear to reflect that.
David Hopkinson says PIF proved their ambition during Newcastle United talks
Given the debate over whether the Newcastle United owners remained committed to the cause at the club, Hopkinson admitted he asked them that during the recruitment process prior to his arrival.
He told The Daily Telegraph: “The question about PIF is a good one.
““It was one of my questions during the recruitment [process].
“You’re talking about a fund where, the last time I looked, it had $1.2 trillion of investments. This is a major, major global player. But I truly believe in my heart of hearts that we are their favourite investment. I feel that, not because they tell me, but because they show me that.”
That cannot have been an easy thing to ask but the fact he did and has been shown their future plans for the club says a lot.
The January transfer window will be a disaster unless Newcastle United sign a_____
The proof that PIF remain ambitious at Newcastle United
PIF haven’t always covered themselves in glory in recent months, despite the fact the club have enjoyed their best era in modern history under their ownership.
Decision making at executive level often appears to travel at glacial speed, which only frustrates supporters.
The fact it took so long to appoint Hopkinson and then sporting director Ross Wilson is indicative of their lack of urgency.
Still, these are big calls to make. As frustrating as it is, due diligence must obviously be applied.
PIF are expected to announce plans for new Newcastle stadium in 2026, which should further answer any questions about their commitment.
Furthermore, an announcement on a new Newcastle training ground could be made later this year, and that would feel like significant progress.