Newcastle United appoint Paul Mitchell as sporting director, succeeds Dan Ashworth
Newcastle United have appointed Paul Mitchell as their new sporting director, ending a four-month search for Dan Ashworth's successor.
The 42-year-old is experienced in scouting and recruitment, having worked at Southampton , Tottenham Hotspur , RB Leipzig and Monaco.
Dougie Freedman, Crystal Palace 's sporting director, had emerged as a leading candidate to take over the footballing reins at St James' Park but turned down Newcastle's approach in May. Johannes Spors, global sporting director of 777 Group, also reached the initial final two-man shortlist.
However, Mitchell was a name who featured prominently during the early stages of what became a lengthy interview process and, despite appearing to step back from discussions, he has now been appointed.
On Monday, Newcastle confirmed that a compensation package had been agreed with Manchester United to release Ashworth, who had been on gardening leave since February, from his St James' Park contract. That has accelerated Newcastle's ability to appoint his successor.
Newcastle were keen to bring in a sporting director who is more of a recruitment specialist and who can improve their use of data in their scouting processes.
Mitchell, a former EFL defender, first moved into recruitment at Milton Keynes Dons, before joining Southampton in 2012. He started working with Mauricio Pochettino on the south coast, before following the Argentinian to Tottenham Hotspur. Subsequently, he has enjoyed spells at RB Leipzig as head of recruitment and development, before joining Monaco as sporting director in June 2020.
Mitchell told the club's website: "It's with immense pride that I accept the responsibility of being Newcastle United's new sporting director. I've seen the recent growth and ambition of the club. This, plus the amazing fan base, made the decision to join an easy one.
"I can't wait to get started and help continue the organisation's growth and long-term competitiveness in all areas of elite football performance."
Darren Eales, Newcastle's CEO who has led the search for Ashworth's replacement, said: "We are delighted to welcome Paul to Newcastle United. He brings a successful track record and wealth of experience to the club.
"His extensive and diverse experience in football leadership, cultural change and recruitment mean he is the ideal person to lead our sporting directorate. We look forward to working with Paul and supporting him in our pursuit of long-term, sustainable success."
- one of the most wanted signings in football(VALERY HACHE/AFP via )
