Newcastle United’s last piece of silverware came in the 1968/69 season when they lifted the Inter-Cities Fairs Cup. Since then, the club and its passionate fan base have endured a challenging drought, yearning for success.
More than half a century has passed since Newcastle supporters last savoured the sweet taste of victory in a major competition. Five decades and countless memories later, the Magpies have finally given their fans a night to remember—a triumph sparked by a transformative influx of resources.
The Saudi Backing
On October 7, 2021, a consortium comprising PCP Capital Partners, the Reuben Brothers, and Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund successfully completed a £305 million takeover of Newcastle United. Thousands of fans gathered at St. James’ Park that Thursday evening, celebrating the Saudi-backed acquisition with uncontainable excitement.
The supporters partied late into the night, their dreams of competing at the highest level reignited. For years, Newcastle had battled relegation, yo-yoed between the Championship and Premier League, and struggled to secure a stable foothold among England’s elite. The Saudi investment promised the change they had long craved.
Recruitment
Following the departure of Steve Bruce—who had guided the team to 13th- and 12th-place finishes in the Premier League before leaving by mutual consent after two years—the Magpies turned to Eddie Howe to lead a new era. Recruitment efforts quickly gained momentum under his stewardship.
Howe arrived with an impressive track record, having elevated Bournemouth to the Premier League and established them as a competitive force. The 47-year-old manager swiftly transformed Newcastle into a combative, resilient and cohesive unit capable of challenging the league’s best.
Under Howe’s leadership, Newcastle tasted Champions League football for the first time in more than two decades, securing a top-four finish in the 2022-23 Premier League season. The club acted decisively in the transfer market, bringing in game-changers like Bruno Guimarães, Alexander Isak, and Dan Burn—players who proved to be pivotal additions.
Beyond new signings, Howe’s impact extended to reshaping the existing squad, instilling a tactical discipline and work rate that perfectly aligned with his vision.
Howe Ends Newcastle’s 56-Year Trophy Drought
For the first time since 1969, Newcastle United have claimed a trophy, defeating Premier League leaders Liverpool 2-1 in a thrilling final at Wembley. The Magpies delivered a deserved victory, capitalizing on Liverpool’s recent dip in form at a critical moment to secure their first major honor of the 21st century.
Eddie Howe’s side dominated the match, creating the most shots and big chances. Boyhood Newcastle fan Dan Burn opened the scoring against Liverpool, before Alexander Isak sealed the victory with a clinical second goal.
Newcastle United fans will celebrate until dawn—and why not? For many, this marks their first taste of glory since 1969. The 56-year wait is finally over, and under Howe’s guidance, the Magpies have soared once more.
