Eddie Howe aware of criticism levelled against 2022-23 third kit

Eddie Howe, Newcastle’s manager, says he is “conscious of the critiques” about the club’s proposed third kit for next season.

The shirt has been widely shared on social media.

The green and white design have been chastised for its resemblance to the Saudi Arabia national team’s uniform.

Amnesty International stated last week that Newcastle wearing the shirt would be “clear evidence” of Saudi state sportswashing.

Newcastle was taken over by a Saudi Arabian-backed group in October.

After getting “legally enforceable assurances” that the Saudi state would not control the team, the Premier League authorized the takeover.

“I understand the criticisms. From my perspective, I don’t think it’s something I’ve had any control over,” Howe said.

“When we travelled to Saudi Arabia, we were well aware of the enormous interest in Newcastle.”

“I realize I’m assuming here, but our kit manufacturers have most likely recognized this, which is why we’ve ended up where we are.”

The club is owned by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), which is chaired by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

Saudi Arabia has been accused of violating human rights.

“If Newcastle United is changing its shirt to resemble Saudi Arabia’s national colors, it demonstrates the strength of the Saudi dollar and the kingdom’s drive to whitewash its harsh, bloody human rights record,” Amnesty International said.

“Despite their assertions that the Saudi owners and the club are separate, this appears to be strong proof of the dictatorship using Newcastle to project a favorable image.”