What Newcastle's takeover could mean for the traditional 'top six'
What could Newcastle's takeover could mean for the traditional 'top six'?
It is now 13 years since Sheikh Mansour’s takeover of Manchester City, a moment that has changed English football forever.
A side that was nearer the relegation zone than the top of the table has gone on to win five league titles, two FA Cups, six EFL Cups, three Community Shields and reach the Champions League final.
Now, people are wondering whether the recent takeover of Newcastle United could have a similar impact on football in this country.
Amanda Staveley has promised that the Magpies will be title contenders within a decade and shake up English football, but just how realistic is that and will the traditional ‘top six’ be affected in any way?
Is the idea of a ‘top six’ still relevant?
Recently Man City, Manchester United, Chelsea, Liverpool, Arsenal and Tottenham have been placed on a pedestal above the rest of the league.
It has largely been these sides competing for the top four and the domestic cups, though recent seasons have brought change.
Since their run to the Champions League final in 2019 Tottenham have regressed and finished down in seventh last season, while Arsenal’s recent decline continued as they finished in eighth.
Leicester and West Ham finished above the North London clubs and are competing in the Europa League this season, and there is no reason why that won’t be the case this year.
Under Brendan Rogers, Leicester have secured European football the past two seasons and won the FA Cup to add to their 2015-16 league triumph.
With David Moyes at the helm, West Ham had their best league campaign in years last season and are playing well again this year.
Leicester should have arguably reached the Champions League in the past two seasons, showing that it is not just the traditional top six that are in control of the European spots.
The success of those two clubs should show Newcastle there are opportunities to breakthrough, but also show it isn’t just the ‘top six they need to worry about.
Vast improvement needed at St. James Park
Newcastle quite frankly need to just try and stay in the league for the time being.
They sit in 19th with just four points from nine games, having not yet picked up a victory in the league.
The decision to sack Steve Bruce last week was undoubtedly the correct one, but that also means they need to decide on a new manager before contemplating future success.
Whatever decision they make could be crucial for how quickly they can turn this season around and then move up the table.
One advantage of this takeover happening now is that they will be able to invest heavily during the January transfer window.
There are quality players at St. James’ Park, but they need not only a more proactive manager but better players around them.
Can they threaten?
In the long run, Newcastle could well become a significant force in the Premier League.
With strong financial backing and a high-quality manager, there is no reason why they shouldn’t be competing in Europe and contesting for major trophies.
However, fans at the club need to give the club time to work on current issues- and accept that success cannot be guaranteed in the current competitive climate.