Newcastle United appoint Matthias Jaissle as Eddie Howe’s successor

Newcastle United have appointed Matthias Jaissle as their new head coach, with the German taking over from Eddie Howe after the Englishman’s five-year spell in charge of the club.

Jaissle, 38, joins Newcastle United following successful periods with Austrian club Red Bull Salzburg and Saudi Arabian side Al-Ahli Saudi FC. The appointment was confirmed on Wednesday, with the coach beginning work immediately.

Howe left the club after five years, bringing an end to his tenure on Tyneside and paving the way for Jaissle to take charge ahead of the new season.

Al-Ahli Saudi FC announced that its contractual relationship with Jaissle had ended after the coach submitted his resignation. The club said he would meet his obligation to pay the penalty clause within the period specified in his contract. Reports in the media have put the value of that clause at 11m euros.

Jaissle is expected to sign a four-year contract with Newcastle United, according to Sky Sports. His arrival will see him lead preparations for the start of the new campaign.

Speaking to Newcastle United’s official website, Jaissle said: “I am extremely honoured to become the head coach of Newcastle United. It is one of the biggest clubs in Europe, with an exceptional history, identity and fanbase, and I am looking forward to this experience.”

He added: “When a club of Newcastle’s size contacts you, you stop and listen. The club’s ambitions and vision for the future made this decision easy for me.”

Jaissle continued: “I have followed the club’s development closely over the past few years, and it is clear how much progress has been made.”

He also outlined the principles he wants his team to follow, saying: “My teams are based on teamwork, hard work, playing with intensity and striving to improve day by day. I will give all of my energy and commitment to help the club achieve its objectives.”

The German coach added: “I see huge potential within the team and the club as a whole. I am looking forward to working with the players, coaching staff and management. I cannot wait to get started and I will do everything I can to achieve further success with Newcastle.”

Newcastle United said the rest of Jaissle’s coaching staff would be announced in the coming period. The club confirmed that the new head coach would take up his responsibilities straight away.

Jaissle spent three seasons in charge of Al-Ahli Saudi FC, managing the team in 138 matches and winning two AFC Champions League Elite titles. During that period, he recorded 83 victories, 21 draws and 25 defeats.

The appointment also links two clubs owned by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, which controls both Al-Ahli Saudi FC and Newcastle United.