Eddie Howe Steps Down as Newcastle Manager Amidst Club Turmoil

Newcastle United’s long-term manager Eddie Howe has decided to leave his role immediately, sources reveal. After five years at the helm, his departure marks a sudden turn for the club just as preseason was beginning.

The 2025–26 season saw Newcastle finish in 12th place, a disappointing outcome that followed the sale of their star striker Alexander Isak to Liverpool. Earlier this summer, Howe and the club's management had discussions and all parties initially agreed on continuing their partnership. Now, reports from The Athletic claim Howe has changed his mind and is set to exit without delay.

Matthias Jaissle Tipped to Replace Howe

The club is eyeing Matthias Jaissle, currently managing Saudi Pro League’s Al Ahli—owned by the Public Investment Fund—and known for his successful time at Red Bull Salzburg, to take over the reins.

Reasons Behind Howe’s Unexpected Exit

The atmosphere around St James’ Park has shifted dramatically since the end of last season. Despite Howe’s earlier commitment, the summer transfer window did not deliver the boost he hoped for. According to Sky Sports News, Howe initially believed that new signings would help push Newcastle back into the Premier League’s top four, but several key players were sold instead.

• Anthony Gordon moved to Barcelona
• Sandro Tonali transferred to Tottenham Hotspur
• The future of captain Bruno Guimarães remains uncertain due to Arsenal’s interest

Although young talents like 20-year-old winger Bazoumana Touré, 18-year-old midfielder Sean Steur, and 20-year-old goalkeeper Ewen Jaouen joined the squad, Howe reportedly has concerns about the overall strength of the team heading into the new campaign.

A recent heavy 4–1 loss in a friendly against Championship side Bristol City, while not critical in itself, did little to improve Howe’s outlook. The decision to part ways appears linked to a desire for fresh leadership at Newcastle.

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

Eddie Howe’s Impact at Newcastle

• Games Managed: 231
• Wins: 116
• Draws: 43
• Losses: 72
• Major Achievement: 2024–25 Carabao Cup Winners

After the Saudi Public Investment Fund took over Newcastle in late 2021, Howe was chosen to lead the club out of relegation danger. Remarkably, Newcastle became the first Premier League team to avoid relegation despite failing to win any of their first 14 matches.

Key January signings such as Bruno Guimarães and fan favorite Dan Burn helped spark a revival. Newcastle surged to fourth place the next season, securing Champions League football and reestablishing themselves among England’s top teams.

Howe guided Newcastle to their first trophy in seven decades by winning the 2024–25 Carabao Cup. Yet, the following season’s sharp decline in form dimmed optimism and increased pressure on him, leading to his decision to step down now.

His 231 games in charge rank him seventh in Newcastle’s history for most matches managed. Only Sir Bobby Robson has overseen more Premier League matches for the club.