Why do Newcastle always play at 5:30 on a Saturday? Their upcoming fixture against Arsenal this weekend will mark the fifth time in 11 games they have featured in the Premier League’s late Saturday slot.
Why Do Newcastle Always Play At 5:30 On A Saturday In The Premier League?
‘Always’ is a slight hyperbole on our part, but there is no denying a pattern emerges when looking at the timings of Newcastle’s kick-offs this season.
They welcome Arsenal to the North East on Saturday for what will be their fifth 5:30pm Saturday slot of the season, and their second in three matches. They also travel to Bournemouth following that, which also happens to be scheduled for 5:30.
Being the most northernly club in the Premier League, travelling fans are likely thankful they are afforded ample time to make their way up to Newcastle, but those from the south coast and the capital are left with a strenuous journey following a half-five kick-off.
We can safely count that out as the sole reason for their pattern of late kick-offs on Saturdays. Perhaps it is simply a coincidence; with a relatively short pool of games to examine – six games out of possible 12 – the figure is amplified and fans begin asking questions.
However, one eagle-eyed X (formerly Twitter) user – TimBolton1981 – has put forward his own rather intriguing theory as to why Newcastle always play at 5:30 on a Saturday.
Tim has insinuated that the Magpies feature so heavily at this time due to their ties with Saudi Arabia.
Whether their ultra-rich owners have the power to influence broadcasting slots in the Premier League remains unclear, but with Arabia Standard Time being three hours ahead of the UK, Newcastle would be shown live at prime time in their native Saudi Arabia.
Their venture into the Premier League is propped up by the nation’s sovereign wealth fund, which was created with the intention of pumping their profits from oil and gas into investments. This is with a view to changing the complexion of Saudi Arabia’s global image through the power of sport.
Being able to broadcast a hugely successful, Saudi-backed Newcastle side back home will in turn boost the profile of football in the nation, amid unprecedented levels of investment in their own domestic top-flight.
This theory is hypothetical of course, but certainly something to ponder.
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