Eddie Howe is set to leave his position as Newcastle United manager after five years at St James’ Park, according to reports from the BBC and Sky Sports. Although the club has not yet made an official announcement, multiple British media outlets say the 48-year-old has decided to step away from the role following discussions with the club’s hierarchy over the past 48 hours.
Howe took charge of Newcastle in 2021 and oversaw one of the most significant moments in the club’s recent history. In March 2025, he guided the Magpies to victory in the League Cup final, ending a wait of more than five decades for major silverware. The triumph marked Newcastle’s first major trophy since 1969 and cemented Howe’s place in the club’s modern history.
Reports indicate that Howe informed Newcastle of his wish to take a break from football management. His departure comes at a challenging time for the club, which has seen key players leave during the recent transfer window. Midfielder Sandro Tonali has joined Tottenham, while England forward Anthony Gordon has completed a move to Barcelona, leaving the squad significantly weakened.
The decision also follows a disappointing league campaign. Newcastle finished 12th in the Premier League after losing 17 of their 38 matches. Howe’s final game in charge is reported to have been a 4-1 pre-season defeat to Bristol City on Wednesday, bringing an underwhelming end to his spell at the club.
Attention has now turned to the search for a successor. According to Sky Sports, German coach Matthias Jaissle has emerged as the leading candidate to replace Howe. Jaissle is currently in charge of Saudi Pro League club Al Ahli, which, like Newcastle United, is owned by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund. That shared ownership has fueled speculation over a possible appointment, though no official confirmation has been made.
With Howe’s expected exit, Newcastle faces another significant transition as the club prepares for the next chapter. While his tenure appears to be coming to an end, it leaves behind a landmark achievement in delivering the League Cup and ending the club’s long wait for major domestic success.
