Michael Emenalo has turned down Newcastle United’s offer of becoming the club’s director of football.
The former Chelsea technical director emerged last month as the prime candidate for the vacant position following a trip to Saudi Arabia for talks but has now decided to snub the Magpies’ offer.
The 56-year-old had the support of Newcastle’s Saudi owners as well as head coach Eddie Howe, but decided that the club and its plans were not “right” for him.
That comes following detailed talks with director Amanda Staveley, who helped the Saudi consortium take over the club back in October.
Emenalo was reportedly ready to assist Newcastle in achieving their short-term target of avoiding relegation, as well as presenting a plan for a long-term strategy.
It is understood that he lost interest due to a delay in negotiations and differences in ideas over the post, which made it apparent that the club does not share the same vision.
That comes as a huge blow to Newcastle’s new ownership, who have already lost out on a number of other talented footballing minds.
And now they are set to miss out on the man who is regarded one of the best in his role, having spent 10 years at Chelsea where his first-team recruitment helped win three Premier League titles and a Champions league trophy.
