Newcastle's New Manager Says His Players Have Plenty of Work Ahead

Newcastle's new manager, Matthias Jaissle, stated that his young squad has a lot of work ahead of them. The specialist debuted with a 2-1 victory over Valencia in a friendly match on Saturday. Filip Ugrinic gave the "Bats" an early lead, but the "Magpies" completed a comeback at Mestalla after substitute Yoane Wissa scored two goals in the second half.

"Today was a friendly match. We won't be celebrating much. We are quite balanced. We know what this is all about. It's pre-season now, and we are still working on many things," Jaissle said after the game. The victory was overshadowed by an injury to winger Anthony Elanga, who was stretchered off after a foul by Valencia defender José Gayà, who received a red card. However, the coach clarified that the Swedish international appears to have avoided a serious injury. "It doesn't look bad, so we are happy. I hope that's the case, then he can start again next week. I was definitely scared, but now I'm calmer, as the medical staff has given almost a green light that there's nothing serious," the coach added.

Jaissle, appointed on Wednesday after Eddie Howe's departure, inherited a squad in transition following the exits of key players like Bruno Guimarães, Sandro Tonali, and Anthony Gordon. "Time is key. They are young lads. Nothing is easy in football, especially at the highest level, but we are here to help them," he further commented.

Newcastle begins their Premier League campaign against Liverpool on August 23rd.