Inside Newcastle 2.0 - how the project is changing

Newcastle United's long-awaited change is underway as the club embarks on a new cycle, seeking to compete at the highest level. Eddie Howe, the head coach who ended Newcastle's wait for silverware, stepped down after a difficult season, hinting at his departure a couple of weeks prior before ultimately agreeing to stay until a successor was found. Matthias Jaissle, a German coach with experience in developing young players, was appointed as Howe's replacement.

The club's approach has shifted significantly in recent months, with a focus on targeting younger players from continental Europe. This has led to the exit of some key players, such as Bruno Guimaraes, who chose to join Arsenal, and the missed opportunity to sign top targets like Victor Munoz and Johan Manzambi. Newcastle has made five intriguing signings this summer, including goalkeepers Lukas Hornicek and Ewen Jaouen, midfielders Aladji Bamba and Sean Steur, and forward Bazoumana Toure.

However, sporting director Ross Wilson acknowledges that there is still work to be done before the new season begins.

Jaissle's aggressive training style, honed during his successful tenure at RB Salzburg, will be crucial in helping the young Newcastle side adapt to the physicality of the Premier League. Jaissle's emphasis on clean sheets and his high-pressure training sessions have been well received by the players. The club's performance director has described Jaissle's approach as "off the charts," with his double sessions pushing players to their limits.

While Jaissle's calm demeanor in interviews masks his aggressive training style, his focus on building a model that can compete and win, without leading to Uefa sanctions, is clear. As Newcastle looks to the future, the new coaching set-up will be vital in determining the club's success in the Premier League.