Newcastle sporting director Paul Mitchell to leave club in shock exit

Newcastle have announced that the sporting director, Paul Mitchell, is leaving the club at the end of June. The 43-year-old, who has only been at the club for a year, is departing by mutual consent.

The CEO Darren Eales, who recruited Mitchell to Newcastle and worked with him at Tottenham Hotspur, is also stepping down for of health reasons.

“I’d like to thank everyone at Newcastle United for their support over the last year, including Eddie Howe, Becky Langley, the players, staff, owners and fans,” Mitchell said. “It has been an honour to be part of the club and to work with some incredible people.

“I’m leaving at a time that is right for me and the club, particularly with Darren Eales – someone who I have worked so closely with in my career – moving on soon. The club is in great hands on and off the pitch, and is in a fantastic position to continue building. I’d like to wish everyone connected with Newcastle United a bright and successful future.”

Mitchell leaves at the end of a successful campaign during which the club won its first major domestic trophy for 70 by beating Liverpool in the final of the Carabao Cup and qualified for next season’s Champions League. Newcastle said: “Paul leaves with the club’s best wishes and the Board would like to express its sincere thanks to him for his professionalism and diligent service.

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