Newcastle United confident second director will not leave after Paul Mitchell bombshell
Newcastle United are set to part ways with sporting director Paul Mitchell after just one season.
James Bunce is likely to remain at Newcastle United following Paul Mitchell’s shock exit, NewcastleWorld understands.
Despite lasting less than a year in the role, the 43-year-old is set to leave next month by mutual consent. Mitchell announced his departure yesterday just 48 hours after the final Premier League game against Everton.
"I'd like to thank everyone at Newcastle United for their support over the last year, including Eddie Howe, Becky Langley, the players, staff, owners and fans,” he told the club website. “It has been an honour to be part of the club and to work with some incredible people.
"I'm leaving at a time that is right for me and the club, particularly with Darren Eales - someone who I have worked so closely with in my career - moving on soon. The club is in great hands on and off the pitch and is in a fantastic position to continue building. I'd like to wish everyone connected with Newcastle United a bright and successful future.
Paul Mitchell x Eddie Howe relationship
Mitchell replaced Dan Ashworth last summer and was unable to make a significant first-team signing due to PSR constraints. A bombshell press conference with reporters saw the outgoing Toon chief take aim at the club’s recruitment setup.
This led Eddie Howe to defend his signings - which include Bruno Guimaraes, Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon - days later. Suggestions of a behind-the-scenes rift were downplayed but Mitchell is now parting ways 10 months into the job.
James Bunce likely to stay at Newcastle United
One key decision Mitchell made was bringing Bunce to Tyneside to alleviate Newcastle’s injury woes. An unprecedented 1,950 days lost in 2023-24 affected the Magpies in the Premier League and Champions League.
Bunce - who worked alongside Mitchell at Monaco - joined as performance director. His impact was praised by Howe several times throughout the recent campaign.
NewcastleWorld understands the club are confident he will continue his role despite Mitchell moving on. The fitness guru is respected at St James’ Park and his expertise becomes more crucial as Howe prepares for a Champions League campaign.
Eddie Howe praised ‘excellent’ James Bunce
NewcastleWorld directly asked Howe about Bunce’s role in March. He replied: “James has taken that on (injury responsibility) this season. His role is to coordinate everything regarding a player’s injury. With, of course, the medical team, in terms of assessing the injuries, getting the correct diagnosis, the right treatment, times and then beginning the process of getting that player back to full fitness.
“I have to say I think he’s been excellent in every respect. He’s made a really positive difference for us. Our injury record over the season has been very strong. That is in part down to James and the medical team.”