Gary Hoffman has resigned from his role as Chairman of the Premier League.
The Premier League boss will step down from the role at the end of January 2022.
It follows on from backlash from Premier League clubs after the recent Newcastle takeover.
Mike Ashley’s £300m sale to the consortium consisting of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, PCP Capital Partners and the billionaire Reuben brothers was finally given the green light last month.
It was a deal which had remained in limbo for more than a year, and one that has attracted a host of criticism as a result of Saudi Arabia’s human rights record
Hoffman said in a statement: “It has been a privilege to lead the Premier League through the last two seasons – when the spirit of English football has been more important than ever.
“Now, I have decided the time is right for me to stand aside to allow new leadership to steer the League through its next exciting phase.”
Hoffman’s departure is expected to add further weight to the arguments over a need for an independent regulator in English football, with MP Tracey Crouch’s extensive review expected to be published next week.