Eddie Howe Leaves Newcastle; Matthias Jaissle Expected to Take Over

Eddie Howe is leaving Newcastle United with immediate effect, according to sources familiar with the situation. The 48-year-old manager, who ended the club's 70-year wait for a major domestic trophy by winning the 2025 Carabao Cup, has overseen his final match - a 4-1 pre-season friendly defeat to Bristol City on Wednesday. Matthias Jaissle, currently in charge of Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli, is the leading candidate to replace Howe. The change comes after a difficult season in which Newcastle finished 12th in the Premier League, losing 17 of 38 games. Despite leading the Magpies to Champions League qualification in 2023 and 2025, and to the last-16 of last season's competition, the domestic slump and a series of key departures have taken their toll. Sources indicate Howe was surprised by the club's transfer business this summer, though he understood the need to sell players. Earlier this year he decided to stay regardless of sales, but his stance shifted over the summer. Newcastle splashed around £240 million on new players 12 months ago, but Howe grew frustrated after striker Alexander Isak was sold to Liverpool. He has also lost Sandro Tonali to Tottenham and Anthony Gordon to Barcelona, while Arsenal are pursuing captain Bruno Guimarães. Howe joined Newcastle in November 2021, a month after the Saudi Public Investment Fund bought the club. He replaced Steve Bruce and went on to win 84 of 179 Premier League games - more than any other Newcastle manager - with a win percentage of 46.9%, bettered only by Kevin Keegan. Chief executive David Hopkinson said in March the club were not discussing a managerial change, but the situation has now changed. Fans have reacted with a mix of shock and gratitude, with many calling the timing a disaster given it comes in the middle of pre-season. One supporter described it as a "total disaster" and warned Newcastle now look like a "serious relegation prospect." Others have thanked Howe for restoring pride and delivering unforgettable memories. Newcastle's summer recruitment has focused on young talent but has not brought any proven Premier League experience, adding to concerns about the upcoming campaign.