Newcastle Confirms Eddie Howe's Departure

Newcastle has confirmed the departure of Eddie Howe. The Magpies' head coach has left his position after nearly five years at the helm. Last season, Newcastle finished 12th in the Premier League. Under Howe's leadership, the club secured two Champions League qualifications and won the League Cup in the 2024-25 season.

"After a period of personal reflection, I've decided now is the right time to step down from my role," Howe stated. "Having poured my life, heart, and soul into the club with unwavering energy for almost five years, I feel it's in the best interest of both myself and the club to step away, recharge, and rest. While it was an incredibly difficult decision to make, I know in my heart it's the right one. It has been the privilege of my life to be the manager of Newcastle United."

Newcastle announced that the process of finding a new head coach is well underway. German manager Matthias Jaissle is reportedly the favorite for the position.

Joining Howe in departing St. James' Park are his coaching staff: Jason Tindall, Graeme Jones, Stephen Purches, and Simon Weatherstone, along with head of fitness Dan Hodges.

Howe took charge in November 2021, guiding the team to an 11th-place finish that season. In 2022-23, the Magpies qualified for the Champions League, repeating the feat in 2024-25, when they also secured their first major domestic trophy in 70 years.

Last season, Newcastle reached the Champions League knockout stages for the first time, where they were eliminated by Barcelona in the round of 16. However, the team suffered 17 losses in 38 Premier League matches and failed to secure European qualification for the upcoming season.

"We've had so many incredible moments. From battling for survival in our first season to numerous unforgettable nights at St. James' Park in the Champions League shortly after. The progress was rapid. Everyone united and we became a real force. These are memories I will cherish for the rest of my life," Howe added.

Howe's final match in charge was Wednesday's pre-season friendly, a 4-1 loss to Bristol City at Ashton Gate. This summer, the Magpies have parted ways with two key midfielders: Sandro Tonali moved to Tottenham, and Anthony Gordon joined Barcelona. Arsenal is also reportedly close to signing Magpies captain Bruno Guimarães.

Last summer, Newcastle spent around £240 million on new players, but Howe was left disappointed when the protracted transfer saga involving Alexander Isak concluded with the Swedish striker moving to Liverpool for a British record £125 million.

"I remain incredibly positive and enthusiastic about Newcastle's future. The club is in fantastic hands, with a great leadership team, and I have no doubt that, along with whoever comes to replace me, they will continue to achieve success on the pitch," Howe said.

Newcastle CEO David Hopkinson added: "Eddie and his staff leave with the profound gratitude and respect of everyone at Newcastle United and with a lasting place in the club's history. While we are disappointed by Eddie's departure, we remain eternally grateful for everything he did for the club."