Liverpool chief in frame for Newcastle job as Paul Mitchell leaves immediately

Paul Mitchell Departs Newcastle United Earlier Than Expected Amid Search for Successor

 

Paul Mitchell has officially left his position at Newcastle United, bringing his time at the club to an end sooner than initially anticipated. Although it was previously announced that Mitchell would remain in his role as sporting director until the end of June, a new report published on Tuesday afternoon by Craig Hope of The Daily Mail confirms that his departure has already taken effect.

 

Mitchell’s early exit accelerates the transition period for Newcastle’s recruitment strategy as the summer transfer window begins to heat up. In the interim, Andy Howe—nephew of current head coach Eddie Howe—will take on a more prominent role. He is set to work closely with Steve Nickson, the club’s head of recruitment, to manage player acquisitions and other transfer-related activities. Despite this temporary arrangement, the club is actively pursuing a permanent replacement for Mitchell.

 

According to Hope’s report, Liverpool’s technical director Julian Ward has now emerged as a leading candidate to take over the sporting director role at Newcastle. Ward, aged 44, has built a strong reputation in football circles, having previously held various roles across the game. His career includes time as a scout at Manchester City and as an analyst with the Portuguese national team. At Liverpool, he steadily rose through the ranks—from scout to loan manager—before being appointed sporting director in 2022.

 

The recruitment process to find Mitchell’s successor is being handled by executive search firm Nolan Partners. Interviews are set to commence soon, with several notable names in the frame. Among them are Ross Wilson, currently in a senior role at Nottingham Forest, and Jason Ayto, who formerly served as assistant sporting director at Arsenal.

 

Newcastle’s leadership will be keen to complete the hiring process swiftly to ensure the club remains on track with its summer transfer plans and long-term squad-building objectives. The choice of Mitchell’s replacement is expected to significantly influence the club’s sporting direction in the seasons to come.