Demba Ba makes Champions League prediction as Newcastle reportedly edge closer to takeover

Add as preferred source on Google

Demba Ba has told Sky Sports that he believes the reportedly imminent takeover of Newcastle United will allow the club to compete in the Champions League – but he urged fans to remember that money does not always mean trophies.

Sky Sports report that Amanda Staveley’s PCP Capital Partners takeover of Newcastle is nearing completion after the consortium paid a £17million deposit, and have exchanged contracts with the heavily-criticised Mike Ashley.

Since reports emerged of a takeover just a few weeks away from completion, Newcastle have been linked with a whole host of big-name players and comparisons have been drawn with both Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain.

Asked about Newcastle potentially qualifying and challenging for the Champions League in years to come, Toon icon Ba responded by claiming they will certainly challenge – but reminded supporters that money does not always equal trophies.

“If that goes through, I will be very happy because Newcastle is a club I love a lot,” Ba said. “It’s going to be another top team, fighting for the title, fighting for the Champions League, and it’s going to be only great for for Newcastle also.

“They will challenge [on the Champions League]. It does not mean they will win because we have seen for example a team like [Manchester] City. “It’s not an easy competition and just money does not give you any guarantee.”

TBR’s view – Newcastle must build slowly, rather than going in hard

Yes, a few big-name signings could boost the morale of a fanbase that has had to suffer a lot of pain under Ashley’s tenure. But bringing in younger players that can help the club grow over the next few years is much more beneficial.

Manchester City quickly learnt as such, firstly signing Robinho who struggled and then opting to build rather than spend big on the best players. Newcastle must follow suit.