Newcastle planned Howe exit since start of year
- Source
- The GuardianTier 1
- By
- Louise Taylor
- Published
Key points
- Sporting director Ross Wilson began contingency planning in January for manager's departure
- Howe stepped down in July; Matthias Jaissle appointed as planned successor from Al-Ahli
- Guimarães sale to Arsenal unwanted but necessary; eight players under 24 signed to fit pressing style
AI summary
Newcastle's sporting director Ross Wilson has disclosed that the club began preparing for Eddie Howe's managerial exit at the start of 2026, with Matthias Jaissle identified as the preferred successor months before Howe's surprise July resignation. The timing caught many off guard, but Wilson stressed the groundwork allowed Newcastle to move swiftly.
The summer proved turbulent: sales of Anthony Gordon, Sandro Tonali and, reluctantly, Bruno Guimarães to Arsenal funded a squad overhaul compliant with Uefa spending rules. Wilson confirmed eight signings aged 24 or under, including Nico González from Manchester City, were chosen to suit the aggressive, high-pressing football demanded by both Howe and Jaissle.
Original headline
Newcastle admit they started planning for Eddie Howe’s exit at start of year
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