Eddie Howe confirms departure from Newcastle after five years in charge

The 48-year-old announced his decision following what he described as a period of personal reflection, saying it was the right time to leave after a disappointing 2025-26 campaign in which Newcastle finished 12th in the Premier League and missed out on European qualification.

"After nearly five years of giving my life, heart and soul into the club with unrelenting energy, I feel that it is in the best interests of both myself and the club to step away, recharge and take a break," Howe said.

"Although it's been incredibly difficult to make this decision, I know in my heart that it's the right one. It has been the privilege of my lifetime to have been the manager of Newcastle United."

Howe took charge in November 2021 with Newcastle battling relegation and quickly transformed the club's fortunes. He guided the Magpies to safety before leading them to Champions League qualification in 2022-23 and again in 2024-25, while delivering the Carabao Cup in 2025 to secure the club's first domestic silverware in seven decades.

His final season, however, proved far more challenging. Newcastle suffered 17 league defeats, exited the Champions League in the last 16 against Barcelona and failed to qualify for Europe. The transfer window also brought significant upheaval, with Sandro Tonali joining Tottenham, Anthony Gordon moving to Barcelona and uncertainty surrounding captain Bruno Guimaraes, while Alexander Isak departed for Liverpool in a British-record 125 million pounds transfer after a lengthy saga.

Howe's final match in charge was Wednesday's 4-1 pre-season defeat at Bristol City before the club officially confirmed his departure.

In a heartfelt farewell, Howe thanked the club's ownership, staff, players and supporters, describing Newcastle as a place that quickly became home for him and his family.

"There have been so many incredible moments in our time here. From fighting relegation in our first season to the numerous unforgettable nights at St James' Park in the Champions League. Everyone came together, united, and what a force we became."

He added that he remained optimistic about the club's future, saying Newcastle was "in fantastic hands" and expressing confidence that his successor would continue building on the progress made during his tenure.

Newcastle also confirmed the departures of assistant coaches Jason Tindall, Graeme Jones, Stephen Purches and Simon Weatherstone, along with head of performance Dan Hodges.

Chief executive David Hopkinson paid tribute to Howe's impact, saying: "Eddie and his staff leave with the deep gratitude and respect of everyone at Newcastle United, and with a lasting place in the club's history. While we are naturally disappointed to see Eddie leave, we remain immensely thankful for everything he has done for the club."

The club added that the search for a new head coach is at an advanced stage, with German coach Matthias Jaissle widely expected to succeed Howe.

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