Amanda Staveley plots shock football U-turn after Newcastle exit as Premier League rival talk emerges
Amanda Staveley and Mehradad Ghodoussi association with Newcastle recently came to an end after three years
Former Newcastle United co-owner Amanda Staveley and Mehradad Ghodoussi are reportedly planning to make a swift return into football ownership just a week after their departure from the North East.
Staveley, 51, was a catalyst for the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund’s (PIF) purchase of an 80 percent stake in Newcastle back in 2021 and played a key role in orchestrating the prolonged negotiations with former owner Mike Ashley as his 14-year tenure came to an end.
As the deal was completed, Staveley Cantervale Holdings acquired a 10 percent stake in Newcastle and Jamie Reuben’s RB Sports & Media took the remaining 10 percent. Staveley stake was later reduced to six percent with Reuben’s share increasing to 14.3 percent, but last week Staveley’s remaining stake was sold and split between the other two shareholders at the club.
Newcastle chief executive Darren Eales claimed it was a mutual decision for Staveley and her husband to leave the club. He told Shields Gazette: “This was an ownership decision jointly, a mutual decision. I think business opportunities for Amanda and Mehrdad moving forward in terms of pursuing some other business ventures which I’m excited to see because they are very motivated. They’re a force of nature so I’m excited to see what they do next.”
Last week Staveley went on to share a message with the Newcastle fans on Instagram which reads: “Nothing I can write today can ever express my gratitude or describe the debt I owe you all. Your support over the last years has been extraordinary, and no fans deserve success more than you.
“Being a small part of your precious Newcastle United has been a privilege, and I will cherish the memories of every single moment. Working with Eddie, Jason, and Becky has taught me so much. They are truly world class - and I will miss everyone terribly.
“Mehrdad and I have relished the role we had at the club - we particularly loved working alongside Yasir, our PIF colleague and Jamie to create a club that will constantly challenge for Europe and will be capable of winning trophies. I know PIF and RB will continue to be remarkable custodians - and the club will receive required support over the coming years.”
Staveley’s departure marks the end of her three-year chapter at St James’ Park but her next Premier League adventure could be around the corner, according to Bloomberg, who understand that the 51-year-old is now keeping tabs on Tottenham Hotspur ahead of a potential business opportunity.
Staveley’s PCP Capital Partners have reportedly raised £500m to invest in football and a number of clubs are being looked at. Despite leaving Tyneside, she remained well-connected in the gulf region having played a key role in both the Magpies and Manchester City’s takeovers in 2021 and 2008 respectively.
Bloomberg also understands that Ligue 1 side AS Monaco is one of a number of club which Staveley is keeping tabs on as she considers her next business venture.