Eddie Howe has resigned as Head Coach of Newcastle United with immediate effect.
Howe’s departure came less than 48 hours after the Magpies suffered a 4-1 pre-season friendly defeat against Bristol City, which marked the end of his reign in charge of the club during which he oversaw their 2024-25 Carabao Cup success to end a 70-year domestic trophy drought and two UEFA Champions League qualifications.
Last season though proved difficult as Newcastle finished 12th in the Premier League and saw their Carabao Cup title defence ended by Manchester City at the semi-final stage, before City then eliminated them in the fifth round en-route to their FA Cup title.
Barcelona meanwhile knocked them out of the Champions League at the Round of 16 stage, whilst Sunderland achieved the league double over them in the Tyne-Wear derby to compound the miserable campaign.
His exit however came after the club sold key players in Anthony Gordon and Sandro Tonali to Barcelona and Tottenham Hotspur respectively this summer, which led Howe to reconsider his future and ultimately step down after nearly five years in charge.
In a public statement, Howe explained that he made the emotional decision in the interest of himself and the club despite the difficulty in physically putting his exit into action
“After a period of personal reflection, I have decided that now is the right time for me to step away from my role as head coach of Newcastle United.
“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.
“Although it’s been incredibly difficult to make this decision, I know in my heart that it’s the right one. I have always put the best interests of Newcastle before my own in every single decision I have made whilst I’ve been here and this one is no different.
“It has been the privilege of my lifetime to have been the manager of Newcastle United.
“It is difficult to put into words what this club, the city and its supporters mean, and will always mean, to me and my family. From the moment myself, Jason and all of the staff arrived nearly half a decade ago,
“Newcastle instantly felt like home and the people here welcomed us with open arms. We took huge pride in representing the club from day one and this city will always hold a very special place in our hearts.”
Howe proceeded to reflect on the highlights of his time on Tyneside from fighting relegation when he arrived to Champions League nights at home and the team’s evolution.
“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 soon after. The progression was fast.
“Everyone came together, united and what a force we became, culminating in bringing home our first domestic trophy in 70 years. These are all memories that I will cherish for the rest of my life.”
The ex Bournemouth manager also thanked those behind the scenes for their trust and support in him leading the club, and iterated support for the club’s future.
“I would like to put on record my sincere thanks and appreciation to Yasir Al-Rumayyan, Jamie Reuben, Jacobo Solís and everyone at PIF, David Hopkinson, Ross Wilson and the entire ownership and leadership group for placing their trust in me and for giving me the opportunity to lead this special football club.
“I remain incredibly positive and enthusiastic about the future of Newcastle. The club is in fantastic hands with a great leadership team and I have no doubt together, alongside whoever comes in to replace me, they will continue to deliver success on the pitch.
“Thank you to Jason Tindall, Graeme Jones, Stephen Purches, Simon Weatherstone, Dan Hodges, Andy Howe and Jordan Tribe for their incredible loyalty, support and dedication and to all of the amazing staff behind the scenes whose hard work and loyalty makes this club what it is.
“A special thank you to all of the players who have represented the club during my time here. Without you, nothing would have been possible and it’s been an honour to have coached you all.
“Finally, and most importantly, thank you to our incredible supporters. Your passion and loyalty have inspired me every single day. To stand on the touchline at St. James’ Park as your manager with the honour of representing your club has meant more to me than you will ever know.
“While my journey as manager has now come to an end, the affinity and love I will always hold for Newcastle United never will.
“Thank you for everything. I wish the club every success for the future.”
The 48-year-old arrived at the club in November 2021 following the club’s take over by PIF and RB Sports & Media a month earlier which led to Steve Bruce’s exit, and has overseen a record of 112 wins, 48 draws and 71 losses in 231 matches across all competitions.
Newcastle CEO, David Hopkinson has thanked Howe and his coaching staff “with the deep gratitude and respect of everyone at Newcastle United,” as he reflected on feeling “naturally disappointed” at Howe’s exit but is “immensely thankful for his efforts.
“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.
“On behalf of our owners, Board, players, staff and supporters, I would like to extend sincere thanks to Eddie for his outstanding service and leadership, and wish him and his family every success and happiness for the future.”
Newcastle’s Sporting Director, Ross Wilson added: “I would like to thank Eddie and his staff for everything they have done for Newcastle United.
“I’m grateful for the support, trust and partnership Eddie has shown throughout our time working together. His dedication to the players, staff and supporters has been evident, and he leaves with the respect and admiration of everyone who has had the privilege of working alongside him.
“I wish Eddie and his family every happiness and success in the future.”