What would next season look like for Newcastle United if the Premier League does not approve the takeover?
Newcastle United are still owned by Mike Ashley at the moment as the Premier League continues to review and assess the takeover of the club. According to all the latest reports, the major issue that has caused multiple delays is Saudi Arabia’s failure to act against the piracy of sports broadcasting in the country.
The paperwork for the takeover was submitted to the Premier League in the second week of April, so it comes as no surprise that optimism is beginning to fade among some supporters. The neglectful ownership of Mike Ashley has taken its toll on the fans and the city.
The last thing the club needs is another season with Ashley in charge. As much as it pains me to even think about this deal being rejected by the Premier League, it is even more difficult to imagine what next season would look like for Newcastle United if that happens.
No Passion
Much like this season, St. James’ Park will not house the fervent support that was on display for 90 minutes when Rafa Benitez was in charge. The Toon Army are obviously passionate about the club and want to support the players, but it is fair to assume that fans will most likely boycott games in larger numbers to hurt Ashley’s pockets and force him to try to sell again.
Furthermore, the animosity fans would have towards the Premier League would add more fuel to the fire of an already existing toxic environment. On Twitter, several fans are confident that the Premier League would have immediately approved this deal if it involved a top six side. Supporters are already frustrated with the delayed review process and it would not be a pretty sight if after all this time the deal gets rejected.
Avoid Relegation
Without this takeover fans should expect more of the same from this club in terms of its objectives. Rather than trying to reach new heights in the Premier League, the goal will presumably be to do just enough to stay in the top flight.
Placing a ceiling on a team’s potential success is the worst thing an owner can do to a club, and enduring another season with no ambition is the worst possible feeling for the loyal fans that bleed black and white.
Player Distractions
Players on the pitch have the same awareness and observational skills as the rest of us. Frustration and disappointment in the stands carries over and impacts their performances on the field. The current squad has sufficient talent to avoid relegation and earn a mid-table finish, but fans are hoping this potential takeover would lead to the departure of half the team.
The fans want to see new owners come in and upgrade the squad by signing quality players to add more talent in every position. In other words, many of the current players who know they are at risk of losing their place in the squad because of the takeover would quickly realize how disappointed fans would be to see them suit up for the Magpies next season.
It is a tough situation for both the players and the fans, but this is what a failed takeover could lead to.