Matthias Jaissle outlines Newcastle United rebuild and backs summer transfer plans

Matthias Jaissle says Newcastle United must focus on building a new project rather than making excuses for the departures of several key players, as he made his first public appearance since becoming the club’s new head coach.

The German spoke to the media during Newcastle’s training camp in La Manga, Spain, in comments reported by Sky Sports. Jaissle acknowledged that the squad and coaching staff would need time to adapt, but said he was confident the club’s hierarchy would support him during the transfer window.

Asked where Newcastle could finish the season after so many changes, Jaissle replied: “It is difficult to answer where we can finish after all these changes after only one day officially in charge.”

The 37-year-old admitted Newcastle had lost important members of their squad but insisted the situation should be viewed as an opportunity rather than a reason for concern.

“We have lost a number of important players, but I see it as a positive challenge,” he said. “We can look for excuses, but that is not our way.”

Jaissle said he would first assess the players already at Newcastle before making firm decisions about the team. He wants to spend time getting to know the squad and give its members the chance to demonstrate their ability.

“Give me some time to get to know the players,” he said. “I want to know them well and give them the opportunity to prove themselves. After that, we will be able to assess things better.”

The new Newcastle United manager also confirmed that the club has the financial capacity to strengthen the squad before the start of the season. He said sporting director knows what is possible in the market and expects new players to arrive.

“We have the possibilities to move in the market, and our sporting director knows that very well,” Jaissle said. “I am confident that we will see new faces at the beginning of the season.”

Jaissle’s recent success

Jaissle resigned from his position at Al-Ahli only a few days before taking charge of Newcastle United. His spell with the Saudi Arabian club included a historic run in which he won the AFC Champions League Elite on two consecutive occasions, as well as the domestic Saudi Super Cup once.

His arrival at Newcastle follows a period of significant change, with the club having lost several important players. However, rather than dwell on those departures, Jaissle said his priority was to establish a fresh project capable of competing from the beginning of the campaign.

The former Al-Ahli manager also made clear that he did not want to judge the current squad too quickly. His immediate focus is on learning more about the players available to him before deciding which parts of the team require further reinforcement.

Newcastle’s transfer activity will therefore form part of that wider assessment, with Jaissle expecting the club to add new faces while also giving existing members of the squad an opportunity to earn their place.

Related coverage has also focused on Mohamed Salah and a possible historic route back to the top of European football.