Newcastle have appointed David Hopkinson as their new CEO. _(Image: Owen Humphreys)_
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**Newcastle United has appointed David Hopkinson as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) after a long search for Darren Eales' replacement drew to a close.**
The Magpies announced in September 2024 that Eales would be standing down for health reasons. It is understood he has been on medical leave to undergo treatment since June, but has now returned to work to perform handover duties.
Hopkinson, whose previous roles include a spell as Real Madrid’s global head of partnerships, will pick up the reins with his predecessor due to formally leave the club this month.
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"I have known Darren for many years, and he is a special person as well as an outstanding executive," said David.
"The progress made by the club under his stewardship is hugely impressive. It’s an honour for me to embark on the next step of the club’s journey with ownership and the executive team.
"Darren has been incredibly supportive in our conversations, and I look forward to working with him as we begin the transition of the CEO role."
Eales arrived on Tyneside in August 2022, 10 months after the club’s Saudi-backed owners took charge, and has presided over one of the most successful spells in the club’s recent history, including last season’s Carabao Cup final win.