Former Newcastle United managing director Amanda Staveley has given a candid and emotional interview on "The High Performance Podcast" about her time at the club and her sudden departure.
The former director, who was a key figure in the club's takeover, became tearful and emotional when a message from a fan was read out to her by the podcast host, Jake Humphrey.
The message thanked her for reconnecting the club with its community and passionate fanbase.
Staveley's departure in July 2024 was a shock to many, as she was the public face of the club's new ownership.
Her interview, which has been widely shared, provides a rare glimpse into the human side of football club ownership and a deeper understanding of her reasons for leaving.
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Staveley on leaving her role at Newcastle
During the interview, Jake Humphrey read out a fan's message, which stated, "Without Wor' Mandy leading the charge in that regard Newcastle United risks losing a vital connection with its soul: the loyal, passionate and ever present Black and White Army."
Staveley became tearful as she responded, "That's really hard. God, sorry... Leaving was the hardest thing I have ever done and took a long time to understand and do what is right for the club."
The comments, which have been widely praised by fans, show that her emotional connection to the club and its supporters was genuine.
She also expressed full faith in the PIF and the Reuben family, stating that she had left the club "in very safe hands."
Why Staveley backed Eddie Howe against the odds
Amanda Staveley also spoke at length about the decision to appoint Eddie Howe as manager in 2021, revealing that it was a choice that was met with a lot of external pressure.
She recalled how many agents and people in football advised against it, believing he would relegate the club.
The former director revealed that the club interviewed over 30 people for the job, and there were two outstanding candidates, Unai Emery and Eddie Howe.
"Eddie was just unbelievable," she said.
She added that the club's chairman, Yasir Al-Rumayyan, "has a very good sense and loved Eddie straight away."
Staveley's comments serve as a powerful reminder of how the club's hierarchy backed Howe against the odds, a decision that has been vindicated by the team's success since.
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