Newcastle appoint former Atalanta and Benfica expert as new Technical Director

by Olly Hawkins · 21 July 2025, 17:36

Newcastle United haven't made a new signing on the pitch today, but they've just secured a major addition off the field.

As confirmed Monday afternoon, Newcastle have appointed Sudarshan Gopaladesikan as the club's new Technical Director.

Suds recently left Italian side Atalanta BC and will report to the club's new Sporting Director and Toon boss Eddie Howe in his new role on Tyneside, which will be largely data-driven.

The former Benfica Head of Sports Data Science will lead the football data operations, also working closely with the club’s performance, medical, analysis, methodology and recruitment teams, with

Discussing his arrival, he said: "I'm delighted and honoured to be joining Newcastle United as Technical Director.

"Throughout my career, I've had the privilege of working with clubs that have deeply passionate fanbases, and Newcastle stands out for its unique connection between the team, the city and its supporters.

"I'm excited to work alongside the club's talented staff to identify what helps give us a competitive edge. Most of all, I'm looking forward to experiencing the incredible matchday atmosphere at St. James' Park and being part of this proud football family and community."

Club statement - Monday 21st July

Newcastle United have appointed Sudarshan Gopaladesikan as the club's Technical Director.

Reporting into a new Sporting Director, Sudarshan - known as Suds - will lead the club's football data operations, working closely with Eddie Howe and his coaching staff and the club's performance, medical, analysis, methodology and recruitment teams.

His role will be dedicated to implementing data-informed practices across all sporting departments throughout men's, women's and Academy teams.

Suds joins the Magpies after leaving Italian side Atalanta BC, where he was Director of Football Intelligence. During his time in Bergamo, Atalanta secured three consecutive top five finishes in Serie A, won the UEFA Europa League and reached a Coppa Italia final.

Prior to his move to Italy, he was Head of Sports Data Science at Portuguese side SL Benfica. In his five seasons in Lisbon, Benfica's men's team won the Primeira Liga title and reached the quarter-finals of both the UEFA Champions League and Europa League, while Benfica's women's team won two national titles. Meanwhile, Benfica's academy reached the UEFA Youth League final twice and won the 2021/22 edition of the tournament.

Outside of his club experience, Suds lectures for FIFA's Executive Education programmes and the PFA Business School on data-driven decision making.