Eddie Howe is set to leave Newcastle United with immediate effect, bringing an end to his nearly five-year spell at St James’ Park, according to reports. 

The 48-year-old departs after a disappointing 2025/26 campaign in which the Magpies finished 12th in the Premier League, with his final game in charge ending in a 4-1 pre-season defeat to Bristol City. 

Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli manager Matthias Jaissle is widely expected to be named as his successor.

Howe took charge of Newcastle in November 2021, shortly after the club’s takeover by the Saudi Public Investment Fund, and oversaw one of the most successful periods in the club’s recent history. 

He guided the Magpies back into the UEFA Champions League in 2023 and 2025 and ended the club’s 70-year wait for a major domestic trophy by leading them to the 2025 Carabao Cup title.

However, Newcastle endured a difficult season last term, struggling in the Premier League while also suffering key player departures. 

The exits of Alexander Isak, Sandro Tonali, and Anthony Gordon, coupled with uncertainty surrounding captain Bruno Guimaraes’ future, reportedly left Howe frustrated with the club’s transfer dealings and long-term direction.

Despite choosing to remain at the club earlier this year despite financial pressures, Howe’s position is understood to have changed over the summer. 

Sources indicate he was surprised by aspects of Newcastle’s transfer strategy, although he recognised the need for player sales to comply with financial regulations.

Matthias Jaissle is expected to take over as Newcastle’s new manager after a successful spell with Al-Ahli, where he won back-to-back AFC Champions League titles. 

The 38-year-old previously enjoyed domestic success with Austrian side RB Salzburg, winning consecutive league titles and the Austrian Cup before moving to Saudi Arabia in 2023.

Howe leaves Newcastle having recorded 84 Premier League victories in 179 matches, the highest total by any manager in the club’s Premier League history.