Matthias Jaissle Set to Replace Eddie Howe as Newcastle United Manager
Just weeks before the new Premier League season begins, Newcastle United is preparing to part ways with their current manager. Eddie Howe, who has led the club for five years, is close to stepping down. The club's board has entered advanced talks with Matthias Jaissle, the German coach currently managing Saudi Arabia's Al-Ahli Jeddah, to take over the reins at St James' Park.
Howe’s Departure and Reasons
The Athletic reported that the 48-year-old Howe has informed the club's leadership of his intention to leave in the coming days, despite having expressed a wish to continue after last season. His decision is said to be amicable, motivated by a desire to take a break from football and rest. Newcastle had prepared for this possibility and is now finalizing plans to handle the transition.
Advanced Talks with Jaissle
Negotiations between Newcastle and Jaissle have progressed significantly. Jaissle, who has been leading Al-Ahli since 2023, is expected to take on the role of head coach. Saudi media previously noted that Jaissle had not renewed his contract with Al-Ahli due to disagreements over certain terms.
About Matthias Jaissle
At just 38, Jaissle is considered one of Europe's promising young coaches. He guided Al-Ahli to win the AFC Champions League Elite titles in both 2025 and 2026. Notably, Newcastle United and Al-Ahli share the same majority owner, the Saudi Public Investment Fund, which may have eased the coaching move.
Before joining Al-Ahli, Jaissle made a name for himself at Red Bull Salzburg, winning consecutive Austrian league championships and Austrian Cups. His teams are known for an attacking style focused on high pressing.
Howe’s Tenure at Newcastle
Eddie Howe took charge of Newcastle in November 2021 after Steve Bruce was dismissed, when the club was struggling in 19th place in the Premier League. Howe helped save them from relegation that season and led Newcastle to fourth place in 2022-23, securing Champions League qualification. He then kept the team in the Premier League's top five spots in the following season.
One of his standout achievements was winning the English Football League Cup in 2025 against Liverpool. This was Newcastle’s first major domestic trophy since 1955 and ended a 70-year title drought.
Challenges Last Season
The most recent campaign was tougher for Newcastle. They finished 12th in the Premier League and were knocked out of the Champions League in the round of 16, suffering an 8-3 aggregate defeat by Barcelona. Their form dipped sharply with only five wins in the final 17 league games, increasing scrutiny on Howe’s future. Despite this, club meetings involving the Public Investment Fund had agreed to give him another chance, even if results were disappointing.
Summer Transfers and Future Outlook
Howe’s exit comes amid a busy transfer window. Newcastle sold Anthony Gordon to Barcelona for £69.3 million and Sandro Tonali to Tottenham for £100 million. Meanwhile, Bruno Guimaraes is attracting interest from Arsenal and reportedly desires a move to the Premier League champions.
Howe’s managerial career also included two spells at Bournemouth, separated by a brief stint at Burnley, before joining Newcastle. His departure is expected to be confirmed in the next few days.
- Newcastle United managerial timeline:
- Previous manager: Steve Bruce (until Nov 2021)
- Current outgoing manager: Eddie Howe (Nov 2021 – Jul 2026)
- Incoming manager: Matthias Jaissle (expected)
- Key achievements under Eddie Howe:
- Saved Newcastle from relegation (2021-22 season)
- Fourth place Premier League finish and Champions League qualification (2022-23)
- English Football League Cup winner (2025)
- Recent Newcastle transfers:
- Anthony Gordon sold to Barcelona for £69.3m
- Sandro Tonali sold to Tottenham for £100m
- Bruno Guimaraes linked with Arsenal
