Newcastle have announced that chief executive Darren Eales will step down from his role following a diagnosis of a chronic form of blood cancer.
The 52-year-old joined the club in August 2022 and will remain in his position until a successor is appointed.
In a statement, he said: “Being CEO of Newcastle United is an extraordinary privilege and I am incredibly proud to be part of the club’s exciting journey.
“However, it has become apparent to me that now is the right time to make this decision so that I can prioritise my health and my family.
“In the short term, it will be business as usual in terms of running the club’s day-to-day operations, and I will give my full support to a transitionary period that will enable the board to carefully assess and appoint my successor.
“I want to extend my sincere thanks to the club’s supporters, ownership, players, and staff.
#NUFC CEO Darren Eales is to step down from his position after being diagnosed with a chronic form of blood cancer.
He will continue to lead the club’s executive team until a successor is appointed.
Our thoughts are with you, @DEalesNUFC. 🖤🤍
— Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) September 27, 2024
“I’m proud of what we have collectively achieved and I’m excited to see what’s ahead for everyone as the club builds towards a future of sustained success.”
Eales’ tenure began during the first year of Newcastle’s £305 million Saudi Arabian-backed takeover.
Under his leadership, the club made significant strides forward, including reaching the 2022-23 Carabao Cup final, their first domestic cup final in 24 years.
Additionally, Newcastle secured a place in the Champions League after finishing fourth in the Premier League two seasons ago.
Newcastle United Chairman Yasir Al-Rumayyan expressed his gratitude for Eales’ contributions, stating that he has played a key role in laying the groundwork for the club’s future achievements.
He said: “All of us who are connected with Newcastle United are very saddened by this news.
“Our thoughts are with Darren and his family and we send him every good wish for a full recovery.
“We will work closely with Darren to hand over the CEO role at the appropriate moment following a carefully considered search process, and he will continue to have the full support of the board and the Newcastle United family now and in the future.”
