Newcastle Secures Brentford’s Dr Naheem Ali
Newcastle United announced that Dr Naheem S Ali, Brentford’s lead doctor for the past two years, will take a senior position within the club’s medical team. Ali is expected to succeed Dr Paul Catterson, who has served as Newcastle’s club doctor since 2009 and is moving to the Premier League to become chief medical officer (CMO). The appointment could be effective as early as next month, with Catterson still under contract for approximately three months while he completes his notice period.
Dr Catterson’s Transition
In May, Dr Catterson informed Newcastle of his intention to leave for the Premier League. Despite his departure, he has continued to conduct medicals for the club’s summer signings and remains on gardening leave at Brentford. The exact timing of his move to the Premier League is unclear, as he is still fulfilling his notice obligations with Newcastle.
Background and Experience
Ali brings a wealth of experience to Newcastle. Prior to joining Brentford, he held medical roles at Millwall, Barnet, England and Great Britain Hockey, the ice-hockey side MK Lightning, and Cricket Ireland. Newcastle’s performance director James Bunce, who joined the club in 2024, and sporting director Ross Wilson have overseen the recruitment process. The new senior doctor will work under Bunce’s performance and medical oversight.
The move marks a significant shift in Newcastle’s medical department, replacing a long-serving head of medicine with a professional who has a proven track record across multiple sports and clubs.
