Darren Eales is now two weeks away from beginning his job as Newcastle United CEO.
The Magpies confirmed last month that the Atlanta United chief would be taking over at St James’ Park, ending a long search for a new leader behind the scenes.
He will fill the role vacated by Lee Charnley, who left the club not long after Amanda Staveley and co bought Newcastle from Mike Ashley.
The new owners have been getting their ducks in a row, and are now set to have three very exciting people in positions of power on Tyneside. Eddie Howe is manager and signed a new contract on Friday, while you’ve got Dan Ashworth pulling the strings as Sporting Director.
Now a new CEO is set to start, with Eales beginning his new life in Newcastle on August 22nd. He will be in charge of the commercial side of the club, and will arrive with a huge reputation from his time in the MLS.
Atlanta United fans love Darren Eales – fantastic tributes made
Eales starts his new job in two weeks, having wrapped up his time with Atlanta United. He now begins a fortnight’s break before commencing his role at St James’ Park.
Atlanta played their final game of Eales’ tenure on Saturday night, and it was a thriller against Seattle Sounders. Miguel Almiron’s former side won 2-1, with Andrew Gutman scoring a last minute winner to secure victory.
It was a fitting end to what has been a wonderful time at Atlanta United for Eales. He helped build an incredible club and culture, and is loved by the fans.
They have paid tribute to Eales, sending wonderful messages of support and thanks ahead of his departure.
One fan hailed Eales as ‘the most down to earth guy’, while others thanked him for everything he built at Atlanta. The video can be seen below.
It’s interesting to hear so many personal anecdotes from fans who have connected with Eales during his time at Atlanta. To see someone behind the scenes get such a response from fans is a true testament to how he embraced his role with the MLS Side.
In contrast, there were only cheers when Charnley left Newcastle. There were no stories of adulation or wonderful moments with him, as there weren’t any. He wasn’t present, nor did he integrate with fans. He was another symbolic part of the shambolic ownership we previously had.
But times have changed at Newcastle thanks to the takeover. It will be interesting to see how involved with the fans Eales gets. We will soon find out, as he officially begins work at SJP on August 22nd.
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