The Chairperson of the Premier League Gary Hoffman will resign at the end of January 2022, only 19 months after taking over, the top of the British league announced on Wednesday.
Hoffman’s departure confirmation followed the media report that he was under pressure from the club to resign after the takeover of Newcastle supported by Saudi Arabia.
“It has become a privilege to lead the Premier League through the last two seasons – when the spirit of English football is more important than before,” Hoffman said in a statement.
“Now, I have decided the time is right for me to stand next to allow new leadership to direct the league through the next interesting phase.” Hoffman, who was appointed in April last year and took over in June, was described as “Extraordinary Candidate” by Chelsea Chairman Bruce Buck, but British media reported that he had lost the trust of the Premier League chairman in recent weeks.
The majority of the clubs opposed the Premier League decision to cleanse the Saudi Arabia (PIF) public investment funds, chaired by Prince Crown Saudi Mohammed bin Salman, to buy Newcastle last month.
Eighteen out of 20 league clubs also chose to support the temporary rules to stop teams from the sponsor agreement agree with the company related to the owner, on the way to limit Newcastle’s new owners.
The Hoffman Turbulent Mantra in charge also coincides with the Covid-19 pandemic and breakaway breakwater efforts from Europe Super League.
The Premier League thanks Hoffman for the service “during the most challenging period in its history” and said the process to point a new seat will begin soon.