Published on 2024-01-24 07:43:54
Newcastle’s development can be compared to that of current Premier League champions, Man City, due to several similarities. Both clubs have hired managers who play football in a similar style and prioritize promoting talent from within their academy systems. Moreover, both are owned by wealthy owners and represent attractive possibilities for players looking to leave their current clubs. However, while both clubs have been affected by Financial Fair Play concerns, City are much further along in their process compared to Newcastle, as City’s current process began several years before Newcastle were taken over by the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF).
City have a young player in their academy ranks who has been drawing comparisons to first-team talisman Erling Haaland, both for his numbers and his appearance. The Athletic (subscription required) reported that Newcastle have agreed on a deal with 18-year-old Alfie Harrison, who is highly-rated and is expected to find a clearer path to first-team action at St. James’ Park than if he stayed at City. This is evidenced by Pep Guardiola’s apparent loss being Eddie Howe’s gain.
It is evident that despite the parallels in their development, Newcastle and Man City are at different stages in their respective processes. While both clubs have adopted similar strategies in terms of their playing style and promoting from within their academies, City’s head start gives them an advantage, although Newcastle’s recent agreement with highly-rated young talent Harrison presents an opportunity for the club to develop and grow. The comparison between the two clubs serves as an interesting insight into the different stages of development and the potential for growth in the future.
