Eddie Howe admits managing Newcastle was ‘privilege of life’ after stepping down

Eddie Howe applauds the fans.

Eddie Howe says managing Newcastle has been the privilege of his life while captain Bruno Guimaraes described the outgoing head coach as “king of this club”.

The 48-year-old ended the Magpies’ 70-year wait for domestic silverware with Carabao Cup glory in 2025, as well as overseeing qualification for the Champions League twice.

However, a disappointing campaign saw Newcastle finish 12th in the Premier League last season and the club have endured a difficult transfer window this summer.

Howe oversaw Wednesday’s 4-1 pre-season friendly defeat at Bristol City and it emerged the following morning that he was set to leave after nearly five years in charge.

The Premier League club confirmed his exit on Friday afternoon, saying they had accepted his decision to step down and thanked him for his “extraordinary contribution”.

Departing Howe said in a lengthy statement: “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.” 

Guimaraes, who has been strongly linked with a summer swap to Premier League champions Arsenal, paid tribute to Howe.

He wrote on Instagram: “King of this club!! Thanks for everything you’ve done for us. I loved enjoying our time together. Thanks for making me a better player and person!

“No words I can say will really say how much I enjoyed being your player. Wish all the very best in your future gaffer.” 

Howe’s heartfelt 547-word message reflected on the highs and lows of his time in the north east, where he created memories that he will “cherish for the rest of my life”.

He thanked a variety of people, from players and supporters to staff and ownership, and expressed confidence about the club’s outlook despite a bumpy summer.

“I remain incredibly positive and enthusiastic about the future of Newcastle,” Howe said.

“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.” Al-Ahli head coach Matthias Jaissle, 38, is the strong favourite to replace Howe, with Newcastle confirming “the process to recruit a new head coach is at an advanced stage”.

The club said “updates will be communicated shortly” as the Magpies look to kick on from the loss of their manager along with star players Sandro Tonali and Anthony Gordon.

Newcastle chief executive David Hopkinson said: “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.” 

Howe is followed out of St James’ Park by coaches Jason Tindall, Graeme Jones, Stephen Purches and Simon Weatherstone, as well as head of performance Dan Hodges.