Eddie Howe is reportedly set to leave Newcastle United after nearly five years of tenure as head coach, with the departure coming just 25 days before the club opens the new Premier League season against Liverpool on August 23, according to reports from ESPN and The New York Times. Howe is poised to be replaced by Al Ahli coach Matthias Jaissle, following a period of underperformance that saw the Magpies finish 12th in the Premier League last season.
Eddie Howe Exit and Club Changes
The 48-year-old coach hinted at his pending exit following a 4-1 pre-season friendly loss to Bristol City, stating that “there has been a lot of change at the football club and potentially more to come,” according to Tempo.co. While Howe decided to stay at St. James’ Park at the end of the previous campaign, he subsequently had a change of heart and informed club leadership of his desire to take a break from football.
The situation between Howe and the club has been amicable, and Newcastle was well-prepared for his departure, according to The New York Times. Howe took charge in November 2021 as the manager of Premier League club. During his tenure, he guided Newcastle to its first domestic trophy in seven decades and secured Champions League qualification twice via fourth-place league finishes.
Despite heavy investment from Saudi backers, Newcastle struggled significantly in the latter half of the previous domestic campaign. Starting on January 7, the club managed only five victories across their final 17 league fixtures.
Summer Roster Turnover at St. James’ Park
Howe’s expected exit coincides with significant player movement during the summer transfer window. Newcastle lost Anthony Gordon to Barcelona and Sandro Tonali to Tottenham. Meanwhile, club captain Bruno Guimaraes has been linked with Arsenal, though that transfer has not been officially confirmed.
Did you know?
Eddie Howe led Newcastle United to their first domestic trophy in seven decades and secured two Champions League qualifications via fourth-place league finishes before his departure.
Incoming Coach Matthias Jaissle
Matthias Jaissle, 38, signed with Saudi Pro League club Al Ahli in 2023 and led the team to consecutive Asian Champions League in 2025 and 2026, according to Tempo.co reports. The German coach spent his entire playing career with Hoffenheim. Prior to his move to Saudi Arabia, Jaissle managed Red Bull Salzburg for two seasons, capturing back-to-back Austrian Bundesliga titles and the Austrian Cup.
Jaissle implements a tactical philosophy characterized by high-intensity, attacking football. According to The Independent, his approach relies on immediate pressure and rapid, vertical play towards the goal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Eddie Howe leaving Newcastle United?
Eddie Howe decided to take a break from football following a challenging season where Newcastle finished 12th in the Premier League, amid numerous changes at the club.
Who will replace Eddie Howe at Newcastle?
Al Ahli coach Matthias Jaissle is poised to replace Howe at St. James’ Park.
What has Matthias Jaissle achieved in his coaching career?
Jaissle won back-to-back Austrian Bundesliga titles and the Austrian Cup with Red Bull Salzburg, followed by consecutive Asian Champions League in 2025 and 2026 with Al Ahli.
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