Newcastle United Appoints New CEO
Newcastle United has officially appointed David Hopkinson as their new chief executive officer (CEO), marking the conclusion of a comprehensive search for a successor to Darren Eales. Eales, who has been on medical leave since June due to health issues, will assist in the transition before his formal departure from the club later this month. He first announced his resignation in September of last year for medical reasons.
David Hopkinson’s Background
Previously, Hopkinson held significant roles in high-profile organizations such as Real Madrid, where he served as the global head of partnerships, and Madison Square Garden Sports, overseeing the operational aspects of notable teams, including the New York Knicks and New York Rangers. His extensive experience also includes over twenty years at Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment, where he was the chief commercial officer managing commercial activities for the Toronto Maple Leafs and Toronto Raptors.
Hopkinson’s Vision and Eales’ Legacy
Hopkinson expressed his admiration for Eales, stating,
“I have known Darren for many years, and he is a special person as well as an outstanding executive. The progress made by the club under his stewardship is hugely impressive.”
He emphasized his eagerness to collaborate with Eales during the transition and to contribute to the club’s future growth alongside its ownership and executive team.
Eales’ tenure began in August 2022, shortly after the team was acquired by owners from Saudi Arabia. He has been instrumental during a time of remarkable achievements for Newcastle, which includes winning the Carabao Cup—an achievement that ended a 70-year trophy drought—as well as securing places in the UEFA Champions League. However, Eales’ health struggles along with the recent departure of sporting director Paul Mitchell have highlighted a critical gap in the club’s executive leadership.
Farewell Messages and Future Outlook
In his farewell message, Eales expressed profound gratitude to the Newcastle fanbase and club staff, stating how proud he was of their shared accomplishments. He also warmly welcomed Hopkinson, reflecting confidence in his capabilities, and wished him success as Newcastle embarks on the next phase of its development.
Chairman Yasir Al-Rumayyan paid tribute to Eales, acknowledging his significant influence in fostering growth at Newcastle United over the last three years. He stated,
“We sincerely thank him for his immense contributions to the club and extend our very best wishes to him and his family for the future.”
Additional tributes came from director Jamie Reuben, who praised Eales’s leadership during a transformative period for the club. Reuben stressed the importance of Eales’ health and family, affirming that he would always be a part of the Newcastle United family, as the club looks forward to its next exciting chapter under Hopkinson’s guidance.
