The Geordies were taken over by the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund and they therefore ended the 14-year stint of previous owner Mike Ashley. Such a change has now seen them become widely considered to be the richest club in football due to their now massive monetary might.<\/p>\n
Fans took to the streets to celebrate the takeover and it signalled a belief that Newcastle would return to the club they once were, a competitor for the Premier League title.<\/p>\n
However their success off the pitch has been a far cry from their performances on the pitch, with the Magpies playing Championship football as recently as the 16\/17 campaign. They returned to the top flight the season after, but have only finished in the top half of the Premier League once since then.<\/p>\n
It has been clear to see in recent months that a lot more is needed for Newcastle to truly begin their potential rise back to the top, but will their new-found riches be enough to save them this season?<\/p>\n
Eddie Howe has been manager for just two months, having previously taken charge at Bournemouth. He guided the Cherries from League One to the Premier League and maintained their spot in the top division from 2015 to 2020. At the age of just 44, he is still considered to be a young manager and his possession-based style of play has the potential to change his side’s fortunes.<\/p>\n
The Magpies’ January transfer activity began within the first week of the month as Kieran Trippier became the club’s inaugural signing in their new era. Having already played in the top flight of English football for Tottenham Hotspur, the 31-year-old is no stranger to the trials and tribulations the Premier League has to offer. He will no doubt be a strong asset for their defence.<\/p>\n
However, their FA Cup third round tie against Cambridge United on Saturday afternoon was nothing but a huge wake-up call.<\/a><\/p>\n The visiting U’s sustained intense pressure from Newcastle at St. James’ Park, with goalkeeper Dimitar Mitov making a series of top saves to deny the hosts all game. Joe Ironside’s turn and finish in the 56th minute was enough to send the League One outfit through to the fourth round. Howe’s side left the stadium embarrassed, especially considering the likes of Trippier, Allan Saint-Maximin and Fabian Sch\u00e4r all started the game.<\/p>\n Such a loss has ensured that they have only won one game all season in all competitions. A 1-0 home win against fellow relegation candidates Burnley is the victory they have enjoyed all campaign. Even Norwich City, who are currently rock bottom of the Premier League, have won more than them.<\/p>\n Therefore, with their new investment and the opportunity to now operate in the transfer market, there is a sense that they will look to recruit new personnel for the rest of the season.<\/p>\n