Newcastle United has appointed Sudarshan Gopaladesikan as their new Technical Director. He will report to a sporting director, who is yet to be appointed. Gopaladesikan will be responsible for leading the club's football data operations. He will collaborate closely with Eddie Howe, the coaching staff, and the club's performance, medical, analysis, methodology, and recruitment teams. His primary focus will be on implementing data-informed practices throughout all sporting departments, including the men's, women's, and academy teams.

Gopaladesikan joins the Magpies from Atalanta BC, where he served as Director of Football Intelligence. During his tenure in Bergamo, Atalanta achieved three consecutive top-five finishes in Serie A, won the Europa League, and reached the Coppa Italia final. Prior to his time in Italy, he was the Head of Sports Data Science at Benfica. During his five seasons in Lisbon, Benfica's men's team won the Primeira Liga title and reached the quarter-finals of both the Champions League and Europa League. Additionally, Benfica's women's team secured two national titles, and the academy reached the UEFA Youth League final twice, winning the tournament in 2021/22.

Newcastle United officially announced the appointment on July 21, 2025. Gopaladesikan expressed his excitement about joining the club, stating, "I'm delighted and honoured to be joining Newcastle United as Technical Director". He also acknowledged the club's passionate fanbase and the unique connection between the team, the city, and its supporters.

Gopaladesikan further commented, "I'm excited to work alongside the club's talented staff to identify what helps give us a competitive edge". He also stated that he is looking forward to experiencing the atmosphere at St. James' Park and being part of the football community.

In addition to his club experience, Gopaladesikan lectures for FIFA's Executive Education programmes and the PFA Business School on data-driven decision making.