Amanda Staveley is to sever ties with Newcastle United, almost three years after becoming the public face of the club’s Saudi Arabian-controlled takeover. Staveley and her husband, Mehrdad Ghodoussi, became directors and minority co-owners in October 2021 when Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) purchased an 80% majority stake, with Staveley and Reuben Brothers each assuming 10% holdings.
The pair played a key role in appointing Eddie Howe as manager in November 2021 and helped negotiate transfers for players such as Bruno Guimarães and Kieran Trippier. They also prioritised the club’s women’s team, aiding its rise from the fourth to the second tier.
However, the appointments of Darren Eales as chief executive and Dan Ashworth as sporting director reduced her role. Staveley reduced her stake to 6% last year while the Reuben Brothers increased theirs to 14%. It is unclear whether they or the Saudis have bought her out, but no fresh investors have been sought.
In March, Companies House listings removed Staveley as a director of 20 Newcastle-related companies, which she described as administrative housekeeping. That month, she failed in a court case to dismiss a bankruptcy claim from Greek shipping tycoon Victor Restis, who claimed she owed £36m. She intends to appeal.
Staveley’s departure was likely delayed by Ashworth’s defection to Manchester United and the need to recruit a new sporting director. With Paul Mitchell arriving last week and recent player sales ensuring compliance with profitability and sustainability rules, her work at St James’ Park appears complete.
