Newcastle name Jaissle as manager after Howe departure

Newcastle United announced on Wednesday the appointment of Matthias Jaissle as their new manager, following Eddie Howe's departure. Jaissle, a German coach, will join the team at their pre-season training camp in La Manga, Spain. Previously, Jaissle was the manager of Saudi Arabian club Al-Ahli, where he led them to two consecutive AFC Champions League titles.

Jaissle expressed his excitement about becoming the head coach of Newcastle United, one of the biggest clubs in European football. He praised the club's ambition, vision for the future, and the passion of its supporters. Howe, who led Newcastle to their first major domestic trophy in 70 years with the 2025 League Cup, stepped down after nearly five years in charge. The departure came amid a turbulent period for the club, as they finished 12th in the Premier League and lost key players Anthony Gordon and Sandro Tonali.

Jaissle, at 38, is considered one of Europe's brightest young coaches. His success with Red Bull Salzburg and Al-Ahli has earned him admiration across the football community. Newcastle, owned by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, is seeking a progressive and forward-thinking manager to reignite their stalled momentum. Jaissle's modern approach, which emphasizes aggressive pressing, fast transitions, and attacking football, is seen as a potential catalyst for reversing the club's decline.

However, Jaissle will face significant challenges as he replaces a popular manager in a club in turmoil. Several key players have left Newcastle, including Alexander Isak, Tonali, Gordon, and Bruno Guimaraes, who reportedly joined Arsenal. The club recently suffered a 4-1 pre-season defeat by Championship side Bristol City. Jaissle will have little time to ease into the role, with Newcastle's season kicking off against 2024-25 league champions Liverpool on August 23.