Eddie Howe Departs Newcastle, Leaving Club Facing Uncertain Future

Eddie Howe Steps Down as Newcastle Manager

Eddie Howe has decided to leave his role as Newcastle United manager with immediate effect, ending a five-year spell at the club. This decision comes after a disappointing start to preseason and a challenging 2025–26 season where Newcastle finished 12th following the departure of key striker Alexander Isak to Liverpool.

Initially, discussions between Howe and the club suggested both sides wanted to continue their partnership, but The Athletic now reports that Howe has reversed his stance and will step down soon.

Who Will Replace Howe?

Matthias Jaissle, currently managing Saudi Pro League side Al Ahli, owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), has been identified as the likely successor. Jaissle impressed during his time at Red Bull Salzburg before moving to Saudi Arabia.

Reasons Behind Howe's Departure

The club's situation has shifted dramatically since Howe reaffirmed his commitment just months ago. According to Sky Sports News, Howe’s initial plan to stay was based on the hope that new signings over the summer would push Newcastle back into the Premier League's top four. Despite bringing in young talents like winger Bazoumana Touré (20), midfielder Sean Steur (18), and goalkeeper Ewen Jaouen (20), the squad lost some established players.

• Anthony Gordon transferred to Barcelona
• Sandro Tonali moved to Tottenham Hotspur
• Captain Bruno Guimarães is reportedly attracting interest from Arsenal

These changes have raised doubts about the squad’s readiness for the new season. A heavy 4–1 friendly loss to Championship team Bristol City recently did little to improve morale and may have contributed to Howe’s decision.

Howe, aged 48, intends to take a break from management following his departure.

Eddie Howe’s Record at Newcastle

• Games managed: 231
• Wins: 116
• Draws: 43
• Losses: 72
• Major achievement: 2024–25 Carabao Cup victory

Handpicked by the Saudi Public Investment Fund after their takeover in late 2021, Howe guided Newcastle away from relegation danger, becoming the first Premier League side to avoid the drop despite not winning any of their first 14 games that season.

Key January signings like Guimarães and fan favorite Dan Burn helped propel Newcastle to fourth place the following season, securing Champions League qualification and reestablishing their status among England’s elite clubs.

Howe led Newcastle to their first trophy in 70 years with the Carabao Cup win in 2024–25. Unfortunately, a steep decline in form the next season dampened spirits in Tyneside and increased pressure on him. His 231 games in charge rank him seventh all-time for the club, with only Sir Bobby Robson managing more Premier League matches for Newcastle.