Newcastle United to undergo full Mitchell review as fresh exit talk blasted
Newcastle United’s sporting director, Paul Mitchell, has solidified his position within the club despite growing speculation of internal power struggles.
Backed by the club’s Saudi owners, the Public Investment Fund (PIF), Mitchell remains a key figure in the organization alongside CEO Darren Eales, performance director James Bunce, and commercial chief Peter Silverstone.
Their collective focus is on narrowing the gap between Newcastle and the Premier League’s top five clubs, addressing long-term challenges since PIF’s investment in 2021.
Recently, rumors surfaced suggesting Mitchell could leave the club before head coach Eddie Howe due to internal conflicts, but these claims were swiftly dismissed by the club.
The leadership has emphasized the importance of collaboration between Howe and Mitchell to ensure Newcastle’s progress remains on track.
Since the close of the transfer window, Mitchell has turned his attention to strengthening other aspects of the club.
He has maintained regular communication with Academy boss Steve Harper and is overseeing the anticipated appointment of coach Diarmuid O’Carroll from St Mirren, who will take charge of the reserve team and manage the Under-21s.
Mitchell has also engaged in extensive discussions with the club’s scouting department, which he previously labeled as “unfit for purpose.”
Early indications suggest his communication with the scouts has been well-received, with Newcastle sources describing his interaction as highly effective.
Mitchell’s influence extends beyond just first-team matters. He recently secured a new contract for NUFC Women’s team manager, Becky Langley, who confirmed that she communicates with him almost daily.
After a 2-0 victory over Sheffield United at Kingston Park, Langley spoke openly about their productive meetings since his appointment, further underscoring Mitchell’s active involvement across multiple departments within the club.
The summer transfer window presented limited opportunities for Howe, with just £15 million allocated for the signing of William Osula, and no new additions made in the January transfer window.
However, with a looming squad overhaul expected in the summer of 2025, key decisions about player contracts and potential departures will take center stage.
Notably, high-profile players like Kieran Trippier may be moved on in the next window, as the club seeks to manage its wage bill and make room for fresh talent. Trippier, among others, is believed to be open to a move, which could free up resources for further investment.
Several key players, including Sean Longstaff, Dan Burn, Callum Wilson, Emil Krafth, Martin Dubravka, Jamaal Lascelles, and Mark Gillespie, are nearing the end of their current contracts.
Howe has expressed his desire to retain Longstaff, but there remains a risk of losing players for nothing if new deals aren’t finalized. This presents a significant challenge, as the club must decide whether to offer extensions or prepare for a substantial squad reshuffle next summer.
Last summer, Howe’s request to extend the contracts of Paul Dummett and Matt Ritchie was overruled by the club’s leadership after the team failed to qualify for European competition.
As the club prepares for another window of potential comings and goings, Howe, Mitchell, and the executive team must work together to navigate Newcastle’s evolving strategy both on and off the pitch.
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