Eddie Howe is leaving his role as head coach of Newcastle United after five years. Matthias Jaissle from Al Ahli is set to replace him. Howe, who secured Newcastle’s first trophy in 70 years by winning the 2025 Carabao Cup, has decided to take a break from football. The separation is amicable, and Newcastle is ready for the change.
Jaissle’s Achievements and Coaching Style
Matthias Jaissle, 38, is known for high-intensity, attacking football. He won back-to-back Asian Champions League titles with Al Ahli, a club also majorly controlled by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF). Before Al Ahli, Jaissle coached Red Bull Salzburg, winning two Austrian Bundesliga titles and the Austrian Cup. He began his coaching journey at Hoffenheim, where he spent his entire playing career.
Jaissle emphasizes player freedom within a structured system, focusing on quick attacks and intense defense. His approach mirrors the influence of Ralf Rangnick, under whom he developed while coaching youth teams in the Red Bull network.
Howe’s Tenure at Newcastle
Howe joined Newcastle in November 2021 when the team was struggling in the Premier League. His leadership helped them avoid relegation. Newcastle achieved Champions League qualification and won the Carabao Cup under his guidance. Last season, however, was less successful. The team finished 12th in the league and exited the Champions League in the last 16.
Their mixed performance brought scrutiny, but Howe stayed after extensive talks with PIF representatives.
Newcastle faces a challenging transfer market, having sold key players like Anthony Gordon and Sandro Tonali. The uncertainty adds pressure as Jaissle takes over with just weeks before the season starts.
“Howe will forever be considered a club legend.”
Despite recent challenges, Howe’s contributions to Newcastle’s success are highly valued. His departure marks a significant change for the club.
Who is Matthias Jaissle?
Jaissle never planned to coach but transitioned from being a Germany Under-21 player after an ACL injury ended his career. Guided by Rangnick, he became involved with youth coaching, starting with RB Leipzig’s under-16 team. His career advanced rapidly within the Red Bull framework, eventually leading to his current role.
Jaissle’s tactical preferences are clear. “I want stress on the opponent as soon as possible,” he states, emphasizing a direct, aggressive playing style.