Eddie Howe exits Newcastle United as club closes in on successor

Newcastle United have confirmed that Eddie Howe has resigned as head coach after almost five years in charge, bringing an end to a period in which he guided the club to two UEFA Champions League campaigns and their first major domestic trophy in 70 years.

The 48-year-old’s departure follows a disappointing Premier League season in which Newcastle finished 12th. The club also confirmed that talks over appointing a new manager are at an advanced stage, with German coach Matthias Jaissle strongly tipped to take over.

Howe said his decision followed a period of personal reflection.

“After a period of personal reflection, I have decided that now is the right time for me to step away from my position,” he said, as quoted by BBC Sport.

“After nearly five years of giving my life, heart and soul to the club with relentless energy, I feel it is in my best interests and the club’s interests for me to step away, recharge and take some time to rest.

“Although this decision has been incredibly difficult to make, I know deep down that it is the right one. It has been the honour of my life to be the manager of Newcastle United.”

Howe took charge in November 2021, inheriting a team battling to avoid relegation. He led Newcastle to an 11th-place finish in his first season before overseeing a significant transformation.

The Magpies qualified for the UEFA Champions League in the 2022-23 season and again in 2024-25. During the latter campaign, Howe also guided the club to victory in the Carabao Cup, ending Newcastle’s 70-year wait for a major domestic honour.

Newcastle reached the last 16 of the UEFA Champions League last season, where they were eliminated by Barcelona. However, a decline in domestic form, including 17 Premier League defeats, meant they were unable to secure European football for the following campaign.

Howe will leave alongside his coaching staff. Jason Tindall, Graham Jones, Stephen Purches and Simon Weatherstone are also departing, as is Dan Hodges, the club’s head of physical performance.

Reflecting on his time at St James’ Park, Howe said the club’s progress had produced memories he would carry for the rest of his life.

“There have been so many incredible moments during our time here; from fighting relegation in our first season to the unforgettable, historic nights at St James’ Park in the Champions League shortly afterwards,” he said.

“The progress was rapid, and everyone pulled together to become a powerhouse. Those are all memories that I will cherish for the rest of my life.”

Howe’s tenure began shortly after Newcastle’s change in ownership and ended with the club having returned to the European elite, won a major trophy and established themselves as a competitive force. But the team’s struggles in the Premier League this season ultimately preceded his decision to leave.