Newcastle launch new era as Man Utd grapple with injuries
Struggling Newcastle find themselves in the unusual position of being the Premier League’s headline act at the start of their Saudi-led revolution this weekend.
So often consigned to the margins during decades of underachievement, all eyes will be on the club on Sunday when they host Tottenham in their first match since the controversial takeover that has Magpies fans dreaming of joining Europe football’s elite.
Manchester United must defy injury problems as they look to get back on track at Leicester, while leaders Chelsea cannot underestimate a Brentford team unfazed by big reputations.
Newcastle can suddenly look forward to a brighter future thanks to the blockbuster £305 million ($418 million) takeover driven by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, which has taken an 80 percent stake in the club.
The departure of disliked former owner Mike Ashley and the vast financial resources provided by the Saudis could turn Newcastle into a major force in years to come.
But while they aim to emulate cash-rich Manchester City, for now they must focus on the fight for survival.
The only way is up for the Magpies, whose new owners arrive with the team languishing in the relegation zone, winless after their first seven league games.
Manager Steve Bruce is expected to make way for a high-profile replacement but Newcastle hinted at a stay of execution on Thursday when they said the beleaguered boss will handle media duties before the Spurs game.
Criticism
Amnesty International has criticised the takeover, accusing Saudi Arabia of “sportswashing” its human rights record.
But Newcastle midfielder Jonjo Shelvey said it was a much-needed boost for long-suffering fans of a club that last won major silverware in 1969.
“This is unbelievable for the club. I understand what the fans want, they want (Kylian) Mbappe and (Lionel) Messi,” he said.
“That won’t come overnight, we have to be realistic. But this club can achieve anything it wants now. The sky is the limit.”
After the adrenaline rush of Cristiano Ronaldo’s return to Old Trafford, reality has started to bite for Manchester United.
Ronaldo’s goal spree at the start of his second spell with United following his move from Juventus papered over some cracks in Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side that threaten to derail their bid for a first major trophy since 2017.
Hampered by inconsistent attacking play and defensive blunders, United have won just two of their past six games in all competitions. - AFP
