Newcastle United Appoints Paul Mitchell as Sporting Director Following Dan Ashworth’s Departure

Newcastle United has officially announced the appointment of Paul Mitchell as the club’s new sporting director, succeeding Dan Ashworth who recently departed for Manchester United. Mitchell, who previously served in similar roles at RB Leipzig, Monaco, Tottenham, and Southampton, brings a wealth of experience in scouting and club development to St James’ Park.

Mitchell’s arrival follows months of negotiations after Ashworth was placed on gardening leave in February. The 42-year-old has a strong background in recruitment and played a pivotal role in player acquisitions during his tenure at Tottenham, including signings like Dele Alli and Son Heung-min.

The departure of Ashworth to Manchester United was finalized this week, with Newcastle managing to secure Mitchell as his replacement. His appointment is seen as a move to bolster the Magpies’ recruitment strategy, especially in light of recent player sales, such as Yankuba Minteh and Elliot Anderson to Brighton and Nottingham Forest respectively.

With Mitchell now on board, Newcastle is looking to navigate potential profit and sustainability rule breaches, having narrowly avoided a points deduction. The club’s recent financial transactions, including reaching a settlement with Manchester United over Ashworth’s departure, have helped balance the books as a new PSR cycle begins.

In a setback for Newcastle, young midfielder Lewis Miley is set to be sidelined until October due to a foot injury sustained in training. Miley, who impressed after breaking into the first team last season, had returned early from international duty with the England Under-20s in March following a back injury. The 18-year-old is scheduled to undergo surgery next week, with a three-month recovery period expected.