Matthias Jaissle Emerges as Leading Candidate to Replace Eddie Howe at Newcastle United
Newcastle United are close to appointing a new manager less than a month before the Premier League season begins. Eddie Howe, who has managed the club for five years, is on the verge of stepping down. The club's board has entered advanced talks with Matthias Jaissle, currently coaching Saudi side Al-Ahli Jeddah, to take over the managerial reins.
Howe’s Unexpected Exit
According to The Athletic, 48-year-old Howe has decided to leave his post, despite previously expressing interest in continuing after last season. His decision reportedly stems from a desire to take a break from football and rest. The departure appears amicable, with Newcastle already preparing for the transition.
Jaissle Nears Move to England
Negotiations between Newcastle and Jaissle have progressed significantly. Jaissle has yet to renew his contract with Al-Ahli, amid disagreements over certain contract clauses. The German coach has gained recognition as one of Europe’s promising young managers, having guided Al-Ahli to consecutive AFC Champions League Elite titles in 2025 and 2026.
Both clubs share the same majority owner: Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, which adds an interesting dimension to this potential move.
Jaissle’s Coaching Journey
Before joining Al-Ahli in 2023, Jaissle made his mark at Red Bull Salzburg, winning back-to-back Austrian league titles and domestic cups. At Al-Ahli, he developed a high-pressing, attacking style that brought success in Asia’s top club competition.
Howe’s Tenure at Newcastle
Howe took charge in November 2021, succeeding Steve Bruce shortly after the Public Investment Fund’s takeover. At the time, Newcastle was languishing in 19th place. Howe helped avoid relegation during his first campaign, then pushed the team to fourth place in 2022-2023, securing Champions League qualification. He also led Newcastle to their first major trophy since 1955 by winning the English Football League Cup in 2025, defeating Liverpool in the final.
Last season was challenging; Newcastle finished 12th in the Premier League and suffered a heavy Champions League exit against Barcelona, losing 8-3 on aggregate in the round of 16. Only five wins in their final 17 league games increased pressure on Howe’s position.
Club’s Response and Future Prospects
Despite the struggles, meetings involving club officials and representatives from the Public Investment Fund agreed to give Howe another chance initially. Now, his departure seems imminent as Newcastle deal with a busy summer transfer window.
- Anthony Gordon sold to Barcelona for £69.3 million
- Sandro Tonali transferred to Tottenham for £100 million
- Bruno Guimaraes reportedly attracting interest from Arsenal and keen on a move to the Premier League champions
Howe’s managerial career also includes two spells at Bournemouth, separated by a short stint at Burnley. His time at Newcastle is expected to conclude officially in the coming days.
