Head coach Eddie Howe says the ambition of Newcastle United’s Saudi-backed owners remains “unchanged” after meeting with them this week.
Chairman Yasir Al-Rumayyan—governor of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF)—and minority owner Jamie Reuben were among those who attended a two-day annual summit at Matfen Hall in Northumberland.
Despite the PIF’s decision to withdraw its multi-billion-dollar backing of LIV Golf at the end of the season, senior figures at Newcastle were reassured weeks ago that this would not impact the club.
Currently sitting 14th in the Premier League, Howe emphasized that the “determination to succeed” from ownership was clear during Thursday’s meetings.
“The desire is unchanged,” he said. “It’s to reach the top of the Premier League and consistently compete for trophies. I don’t see that changing while the PIF are involved—they are highly ambitious for this football club.”
Newcastle’s leadership has previously outlined a goal of reaching elite status by 2030, though Howe acknowledged that building the necessary infrastructure will take time.
Following significant capital investment, an announcement is expected on plans for a new state-of-the-art training ground—seen as a key signal of long-term commitment.
There have also been discussions about the future of St James' Park, with the club weighing up whether to expand the historic stadium or build a new one to increase revenue and close the financial gap to the league’s top earners.
“They clearly care deeply about the club, especially when you look at the long-term planning across multiple areas,” Howe said. “There are very exciting times ahead, regardless of short-term results. The long-term vision is firmly in place.”
The summit—planned months in advance—provided a platform to address infrastructure, recruitment strategy, the team’s recent dip in form, and how to respond.
Howe, who delivered a presentation as scheduled, described having “challenging conversations” with senior figures but struck a positive tone ahead of Newcastle’s upcoming match against Brighton.
“I was pleased with the level of support shown to me,” he said. “But we all understand football—we still need results. That will never change.”
