Eddie Howe has broken his silence on leaving Newcastle, saying it has been the “privilege of my lifetime”.
The 48-year-old leaves St James’ Park just weeks before the start of the new Premier League season, ending one of the most successful managerial spells in Newcastle’s modern history after almost five years in charge.
Howe guided the club away from relegation danger before establishing them among the Premier League’s leading sides, delivering Champions League qualification on two occasions through top-five finishes.
Perhaps his greatest achievement came when Newcastle ended their 70-year wait for a major domestic trophy by lifting the League Cup in 2025, cementing his place among the club’s most influential managers.
In a statement released on the club’s website, Howe said: “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.”
Eddie Howe described managing Newcastle as the ‘privilege of my lifetime’
| REUTERS
The statement continued: “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 [Tindall] 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.
“There have been so many incredible moments in our time here.
Howe said: ‘There have been so many incredible moments in our time here’
| PA
“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.
“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.”
Matthias Jaissle is poised to replace Eddie Howe as Newcastle manager | GETTY
Newcastle are scheduled to play four friendly fixtures before they kick-off their Premier League season against Liverpool.
Highly-rated German coach Matthias Jaissle has emerged as the leading candidate to take charge at St James’ Park.
The Magpies’ next friendly is not until August 8 against Valencia, before facing Everton, Bayer Leverkusen and Strasbourg.
A tricky opening three games await after playing Liverpool, with Tottenham and Bournemouth looming, in what many fans fear could turn out to be a tough campaign for Newcastle.
