Matthias Jaissle Set to Replace Eddie Howe as Newcastle United Manager
Matthias Jaissle, currently leading Saudi Arabia's Al-Ahli Jeddah, is nearing a move to the English Premier League. Despite having a contract through the next season with Al-Ahli, talks with Newcastle United are in advanced stages, positioning him as the likely successor to Eddie Howe.
Eddie Howe’s Sudden Decision to Step Down
According to The Athletic, Eddie Howe plans to leave his role as Newcastle manager within days, ending a five-year spell at the club. At 48 years old, Howe has expressed a wish to take a break from football, informing the board of his intention amicably. Newcastle had anticipated this possibility and prepared accordingly.
Advanced Negotiations with Matthias Jaissle
Discussions between Newcastle and Jaissle have intensified. The German coach, who currently oversees Al-Ahli, is expected to take charge of the Magpies soon. Reports from Saudi media indicate that contract renewal talks between Jaissle and Al-Ahli faltered over certain terms, making his departure more likely.
Jaissle's Rising Profile in European and Asian Football
At just 38, Jaissle is regarded as one of Europe's promising coaching talents. He led Al-Ahli to consecutive AFC Champions League Elite titles in 2025 and 2026. Both Newcastle and Al-Ahli share a majority owner: Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, which could ease Jaissle’s transition.
Before joining Al-Ahli in 2023, Jaissle made his mark at Red Bull Salzburg, winning back-to-back Austrian league titles and the Austrian Cup. His teams are known for a high-pressing, attacking style.
Howe’s Legacy at Newcastle United
Howe took over Newcastle in November 2021, replacing Steve Bruce after the club was acquired by the Public Investment Fund. When Howe arrived, Newcastle was 19th in the Premier League standings. He saved them from relegation that season and led them to a fourth-place finish in 2022-23, earning a spot in the Champions League.
One of Howe's standout achievements was winning the English Football League Cup in 2025, beating Liverpool in the final. This victory ended Newcastle's 70-year wait for a major domestic trophy.
Recent Struggles and Changing Fortunes
The last season proved challenging. Newcastle finished 12th in the Premier League and were eliminated in the Champions League round of 16 by Barcelona, losing 8-3 on aggregate. Only five wins in their final 17 league matches increased pressure on Howe’s position.
Despite this, club officials, including representatives from the Public Investment Fund, initially agreed to give Howe another chance following the season.
Summer Transfer Activity Amid Managerial Uncertainty
Newcastle's transfer window has been busy. They sold Anthony Gordon to Barcelona for £69.3 million and Sandro Tonali to Tottenham for £100 million. Meanwhile, Brazilian midfielder Bruno Guimaraes faces interest from Arsenal and reportedly wants to join the Premier League champions.
Howe’s Career Path
Prior to Newcastle, Howe managed Bournemouth twice, with a short spell at Burnley in between. His tenure at Newcastle is expected to officially conclude in the coming days as the club moves forward with Jaissle.
- Newcastle Manager Departure: Eddie Howe
- Likely Successor: Matthias Jaissle
- Current Club of Jaissle: Al-Ahli Jeddah
- Shared Ownership: Public Investment Fund (Saudi Arabia)
- Jaissle's Achievements: AFC Champions League Elite winner 2025 & 2026, Austrian league titles with Red Bull Salzburg
- Recent Newcastle Performance: 12th in Premier League, Champions League last 16 exit
- Major Transfers: Anthony Gordon (£69.3m), Sandro Tonali (£100m), Bruno Guimaraes linked with Arsenal
