The country’s most loyal fans are frustrated because they cannot see how recent changes fit with the vision of Newcastle United ; “By 2030 being in the debate about being the top club in the world.”
In his interview in January of this year, CEO David Hopkinson talked of alignment as well as clarity, conviction and commitment.
However, at the moment all we know is that we have lost three world class players, including our captain, and our most successful manager since the 1950s.
Our fans are realists and do not subscribe to some pundits’ view that with PIF ownership we were expecting marquee signings with the price tags of Mbappe or Neymar.
Whilst we would rather retain our best players we do not resent them having ambitions that might outstrip our development trajectory. Buying young, good value, high potentials makes sense but Newcastle United fans would like to know where this fits with the stated vision.
It is disappointing that no obvious progress seems to have been made with a new training facility which was referenced in the CEO’s interview: “those are the investments we’re going to have to make to get to a world-class level”. since then, nothing; 2030 is not far away.
Neither do we expect expect a running commentary on the club plans including increasing stadium capacity either by upgrade or new build.
But the most successful clubs have a strong and inter-dependent relationship between owners and its management team, the players and the fans. That’s alignment.
The Toon Army will get behind whatever team is fielded but we would appreciate The Club providing a context for its recent transfer activity and management change and where it fits with our long term goals.
The fans demonstrate their commitment week in week out and would appreciate a little more clarity from the club so we can see where are going, together.