It was September 2020 when Nick De Marco became a household name among Newcastle United fans.
It comes after Mike Ashley released a statement on Wednesday 9 September 2020 accusing the Premier League of failing to act ‘appropriately’ in rejecting Newcastle United’s takeover.
The Premier League responded the following day with a statement of their own (see both statements below) outright denying the NUFC owner’s claims.
Then, on Monday 14 September 2020, London-based solicitors Blackstone Chambers confirmed (see also below) that Mike Ashley had engaged them to act on his and the club’s behalf to join the Premier League.
Over the next year, Nick De Marco attracted a healthy following of Newcastle fans on social media, which led to some rather outlandish, often amusing claims from both NUFC media and fans alike about the direction / likely success of NUFC / Ashley legal action… based on Nick De Marco’s tweets at home showing his love of baking.
Nick De Marco sometimes with some ‘random’ product placements in photos / text eg Newcastle Brown Ale…
Although primarily a QPR supporter, Nick De Marco is also a fan of the clubs he represents/has represented, none more so than Newcastle United.
NUFC QC then took to social media after the takeover was completed in October 2021 and celebrated the occasion with the perfect black and white drink, Nick De Marco in black velvet (Champagne & Guinness):
Commenting on the events and the completion of the Newcastle United takeover:
“Black velvet.
“When the Newcastle takeover deal went through in principle. It was celebrated with a black and white cocktail. Now you can do it publicly.
“It’s been a long road but I’m delighted for NUFC and its fans. I hope this marks the start of a great new era. Looking forward to the match at SJP soon!”
“While it’s difficult to argue with the Premier League, I think the result is best for it as well – helping to seal its reputation as the best and most competitive/interesting league in the world.
“Imagine if we missed an investment opportunity and let another league get it.”
Black velvet. Basically when the Newcastle takeover deal is done. Celebrated privately with a black and white cocktail. Now you can do it openly. Took a long time but I’m so happy for NUFC and its fans. I hope this marks the beginning of a wonderful new era. Looking forward to a match on SJP soon! pic.twitter.com/Sm16hISjGc
— Nick De Marco QC (@nickdemarco_) October 7, 2021
We will drink that Nika!
Blackstone Chambers announcement – Monday 14 September 2020:
‘Newcastle United FC and the Premier League
Shaheed Fatima QC and Nick De Marco QC are acting for Newcastle United FC and Mike Ashley (instructed by Dentons).
Official Club Statement (Mike Ashley) on the status of the Newcastle United takeover – Wednesday 9 September 2020:
“Newcastle United can confirm that the Premier League has rejected a takeover bid from PCP Capital Partners, Reuben Brothers and Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) based on the Owners and Directors test.
This conclusion was reached despite the club providing the Premier League with extensive evidence and legal opinions that the PIF was independent and autonomous from the Saudi Arabian government.
The club and its owners do not accept Premier League chief executive Richard Masters and the Premier League taking appropriate action in this matter and will consider all relevant options available to them.
Mike Ashley understands the fans’ frustration and would like to reassure them that he is fully committed to ensuring that this handover process is completed as it is in the best interests of the club.
Mike continues to give his full support to Steve Bruce, the players and the entire staff and wishes them well for the season ahead.’
Premier League statement in response to Mike Ashley’s statement / allegations – Thursday 10 September 2020:
“The Premier League is disappointed and surprised by the announcement of the takeover of Newcastle United Football Club by PCP Capital Partners, Reuben Brothers and the Public Investment Fund (PIF) of Saudi Arabia.
“The club’s claim that the Premier League rejected the purchase is incorrect.
“The Premier League Board of Directors has on several occasions issued an opinion on which entities will control the club if the consortium goes ahead with the purchase. This opinion is based on legal advice.
“This means that potential acquisitions can proceed to the next stage if the relevant entities provide all the necessary information. They will then be subject to a compliance assessment by the Council. Alternatively, the Council has repeatedly offered independent arbitration as a way forward since June.
“It is also incorrect to say that these decisions were made by any one person; they were made unanimously by all members of the Premier League Board.”