I don't think there's a subtle difference, I think there's a huge difference. If I was a Newcasle fan, I'd now be in the position where the owner of my club was legally allowed to kill me if I lived in the country that they will rule. That's very different to if I was a Chelsea fan, who's owner is a businessman but no longer has any official legal powers in his own country. I won't say much more because I suspect the 'no politics' rule will come into place...
They are all dodgy, the characteristics just vary in each case. The sport is morally bankrupt and it will drop its drawers for anyone with a big wad. Football will eat itself.
Its not just "the sport". Many if not most businesses are pretty much the same, as are many if not most individuals. Everywhere we turn we are faced with hypocrisy and self interest before morals. Unfortunately it's just the way of the world now. What a shame the momentary pause and reflection from the global pandemic is now already just a memory.
**** it! The geordies were unbearable before Ashley, they were arseholes during the Ashley reign, they’re going to be unbearable arseholes now they’ve got some money to spend but it will be hilarious watching them spontaneously combust if they don’t win the FA Cup, the Littlewoods Cup, Dancing On Ice and the 2021 Champions League!
If only they could read what it says on the flag. "There is no god but Allah; Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah."
Alan Shearer and Kevin Keegan have already been approached about ambassadorial roles at Newcastle United.
If I recall from the dim & distant past, at one time N.U. held the record for number of FA Cup trophy wins. Mid '50s or thereabouts, so they did have their moment of fame. All downhill since mind.
Saudi Arabia has been scrutinised and has passed the Premier League scrutiny just as BAE arms sales are approved and export licenses granted, we have 5K staff working in the Kingdom.
'After fourteen years under the yolk of Sports Direct mogul Mike Ashley,' No doubt they will end up with egg on their faces.