Why Are Newcastle In Such A Mess?

The Owner

Mike Ashley is one of the most controversial figures in football. Ashley, the owner of Sports Direct, took over the club in 2007 and many fans were hoping his arrival could spark a revival in the club and a return it to the good times. However, this has not been the case.

Ashley has been accused of being emotionally detached from the club and is despised by the fans, who see him as trying to turn Newcastle into a profitable business. Ashley has also sparked controversy by temporarily renaming the stadium, calling it The Sports Direct Arena. Although Ashley quickly changed it back, the damage had already been done and fans saw this as further evidence that Ashley was using the club to promote his other business interests. A sponsorship deal with the controversial payday loan company Wonga did little to improve his reputation, nor did his attempted takeover of Rangers in Scotland.

While Ashley has been unpopular, he does deserve some credit. He continued to back the club when they were relegated and has put the club on a much sounder financial footing, although fans will argue he has done this by selling the club’s best players. Unlike some owners Ashley does attend most games and at the start of his reign sat with the home fans in the stands.

Despite this, it seems that for Newcastle to move forward Ashley may have to leave, as his presence is creating a toxic atmosphere at the club as he continues to antagonise fans. Ashley recently said he would not sell the club until the wins a trophy, meaning he could continue as owner for a good few years yet.