Newcastle United can become “the top club in the world” by 2030 says chief executive | OneFootball

Newcastle United’s new chief executive David Hopkinson has set out an ambitious vision for the club, insisting the Magpies can be “in the debate about being the top club in the world” by 2030.

Hopkinson, appointed in September after Darren Eales stepped down for health reasons, says Newcastle must show “courage” in the face of scepticism as they attempt to transform themselves into perennial contenders. His confidence comes despite the team currently sitting mid-table in the Premier League, far from the level of the clubs he wants them to compete with.

The Canadian executive, who previously worked with the Toronto Maple Leafs, Toronto Raptors and Real Madrid, believes Newcastle are in the middle of what he calls “the most transformational opportunity in sport”. He has carried out a full review of the club and submitted a long-term plan to the PIF-led ownership, with defined targets set for each season.

A major focus for Hopkinson is revenue. Newcastle’s income is expected to rise above £400m, a huge jump from £140m in 2021, but remains well short of Manchester City’s levels, according to figures from BBC Sport. That financial gap feeds directly into the wage bill, an area where City continue to outspend Newcastle comfortably under financial regulations. Hopkinson’s task is to close that gap by modernising the commercial operation, strengthening the club’s digital and data departments, and attracting new global partners.

Newcastle’s ability to strike major sponsorship deals has been affected by stricter associated-party transaction rules brought in after the club’s takeover, limiting the scope for rapid commercial expansion. Football finance expert Kieran Maguire says this means Newcastle “face a harder route” than Manchester City did a decade ago, and that sponsors still naturally gravitate towards clubs with major trophies.

Hopkinson and sporting director Ross Wilson are also tackling longer-term infrastructure projects. The club are exploring options for upgrading St James’ Park or building a new stadium, but stress that any change will take years. Plans are also being developed for a new state-of-the-art training ground, replacing the ageing Benton site.

For all the ambition, Hopkinson is clear that progress will be gradual. Wilson says the club “must keep raising the bar” as rivals improve at the same time. But Newcastle’s leadership believes firmly that the foundations being laid now can carry the club into the sport’s elite, and keep them there.

GFN | Finn Entwistle