Newcastle’s Champions League return only the start for ambitious Eddie Howe

Howe targets sustained success for revitalised Newcastle after ambitious boss ends club’s 20-year absence from Champions League

A 0-0 draw against Leicester on Monday sparks raucous celebrations at St James’ Park as third-placed side confirm qualification

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Newcastle United players celebrate after their draw with Leicester secured a top-four finish. Photo: AFP

Published: 10:56am, 23 May 2023

Eddie Howe has targeted a period of sustained success for revitalised Newcastle after the ambitious boss ended his club’s 20-year absence from the Champions League.

Fuelled by Howe’s astute management and the financial muscle of their Saudi-backed owners, Newcastle have enjoyed a remarkable rise over the last 18 months.

A 0-0 draw against Leicester on Monday sparked raucous celebrations at St James’ Park as Howe’s third-placed side confirmed their qualification for next season’s Champions League.

Once regarded as the laughing stock of the Premier League, Newcastle are emerging as a genuine force for the first time since Kevin Keegan’s “entertainers” came close to winning the title in the 1990s.

It is an astonishing transformation for a team who were mired in the relegation zone when Howe was hired just weeks after the £305 million (US$376 million) takeover from unpopular former owner Mike Ashley in October 2021.

Newcastle United chairman Yasir Al-Rumayyan, directors Amanda Stavely, Mehrdad Ghodoussi and Jamie Reuben pose with the players, coaching staff and their families during a lap of appreciation after qualifying for the Champions League. Photo: Reuters

Saudi’s Public Investment Fund holds an 80 per cent stake in Newcastle, with their presence in the Premier League still a bone of contention for groups who have complained about the country’s human rights record.