Newcastle United have not only started a new season, they’ve entered into something of a new era.
Despite a distinct lack of big-name new signings, there has indeed been a fair amount of change at Newcastle this summer.
Indeed, Paul Mitchell has come in as sporting director, with James Bunce joining as performance director.
Amanda Staveley and Mehrdad Ghodoussi have also left St James’ Park, in news that is thought to have hit head coach Eddie Howe particularly hard. In fact, some of the first-team squad were said to have been bewildered by their exits.
Staveley and Ghodoussi were both the public-facing figures of the PIF era before their departures and were frequently engaging with supporters on social media.
Ahead of the first Premier League game of the season against Southampton on Saturday, sections of the support unveiled a banner displaying a photo of the couple, with the words “Thank You” attached.
Bruno Guimaraes responds to Amanda Staveley’s emotional post about Newcastle
Addressing the banner, Staveley posted an Instagram message reading: “I am both humbled and grateful for all the heartfelt messages of support today: I read every one, and wish I could reply to you all personally.
“Seeing pictures of the stadium today made cry – thank you to Wor flags for all your incredible work today and over the last few years. I know better than most, the incredible work you all put in at every game. Our fans are the best – and there is nowhere better than St James’. I will always be your Geordie girl… Wor Mandy”
In response, Bruno Guimaraes added: “One of us.”
Bruno Guimaraes is becoming a leader for Newcastle
Handed more of a leadership role this season, Guimaraes impressed in his first competitive game wearing the Newcastle captain’s armband.
Howe was full of praise for the Brazil star for his defending in a difficult win over Southampton, underlining just how important he is to the cause even aside from his obvious quality on the ball.
Guimaraes clearly gets Newcastle. He seems happy to be staying, news that Ghodoussi was pleased to hear.
It seems he still has a relationship with the former directors and that is to be enjoyed. Without them, Newcastle could still be in a very dark place.
Staveley and Ghodoussi did so much for the club, it’s great to see them honoured by both fans and players alike.
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