Shola Ameobi reflects on his journey with Newcastle United

The Guardian Sport • 2 min read • Latest: Oct 22, 2026, 7:00 AM

Last updated Oct 22, 2026

Shola Ameobi reflects on his journey with Newcastle United
Summary

Shola Ameobi shares his experiences growing up in Newcastle facing racism and how it shaped his career. The former striker, who moved from Nigeria at age six, spoke about times he feared for his safety and had to navigate a challenging environment. Becoming a derby hero and later joining Newcastle’s executive team, Ameobi expressed his desire to be useful to the club. His story highlights the ongoing issues of racism and the transformative impact of sports in addressing such challenges.

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By the Numbers
  • •Ameobi faced racism growing up in Newcastle in the late 1980s and 1990s.
  • •He experienced fear and isolation due to his background.
  • •Ameobi transitioned from player to executive at Newcastle United.
  • •His story emphasizes the importance of addressing racism in sports.
Latest Updates
  • 7:00 AMThe Guardian Sport — Shola Ameobi: ‘I thought: how can I be most useful to Newcastle? Then the cog started turning’
What they're saying
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From experiencing racism growing up in Newcastle to becoming a derby hero and now a member of the executive team, the former striker has been on a remarkable journey “There were times where I feared for my life as a kid, being harassed and chased by different groups of people,” Shola Ameobi says. “There were situations where I had to sprint to get away from groups of lads who didn’t like me because of what I looked like.” Ameobi is recalling growing up in Newcastle during the late 1980s and 1990s, having moved from Nigeria aged six. There were, he says, “lots of moments” like that. “It was almost as if I had to hide myself to be able to do what I love to do. It wasn’t a very nice feeling, having to worry about getting from A to B. It was just part of my world. I had to be more aware of my surroundings and what I was doing.” Continue reading...

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