Saudi-Backed Newcastle Triumphs as Salah’s Future Fades

Fifty-five years of hurt, wiped away in one glorious night at Wembley.

Newcastle United, backed by Saudi investment but fueled by generations of loyal support, finally lifted their first major trophy since 1969, defeating Liverpool 2-1 in the EFL Carabao Cup final on Sunday.

Dan Burn, the Geordie giant, opened the scoring with a towering header, sending the Toon Army into raptures. Alexander Isak doubled the lead with a clinical finish, capitalizing on Newcastle’s relentless pressure. Federico Chiesa pulled one back for Liverpool, but Arne Slot’s side couldn’t find an equalizer, as Eddie Howe’s men held firm to etch their names in history.

For Newcastle, this was more than just silverware—it was the culmination of a resurgence, proof that their club is no longer just dreaming but delivering. Off the pitch, black-and-white joy poured from the stands, a reminder of what football means to a city that breathes it.

Meanwhile, for Mohamed Salah, another trophy slipped away, and with it, perhaps his last real shot at the Ballon d'Or. Liverpool’s Carabao Cup defeat followed their exits from both the FA Cup and the Champions League, leaving the Egyptian king with little silverware to bolster his case. At 33, time is running out for Salah to claim football’s highest individual honor, and this latest heartbreak might just be the final nail in that dream.

The sleeping giant is awake—and hungry for more.

Newcastle’s Saudi-backed project wins its first trophy, while Salah’s Ballon d'Or hopes fade amid contract uncertainty and exit rumors.

Photo courtesy: Newcastle United official X account