Eddie Howe left Matfen Hall on Thursday convinced that the Saudi-backed Public Investment Fund (PIF), which owns 85 per cent of Newcastle United, remains fully behind the club’s ambition to become a world‑class side. After a season that fell short of expectations, the 48‑year‑old manager said his recent discussions with the owners were "constructive" and reinforced the belief that the long‑term vision set out when the PIF took control in October 2021 is still alive. The talks, which Howe described as "challenging conversations," were held with Yasir Al‑Rumayyan, chairman of both Newcastle and the PIF. They took place against the backdrop of the Saudis announcing that they will cease funding LIV Golf at the end of the 2026 season, despite having invested more than $5 billion (£3.7 billion) in the venture.
When asked whether he had received any explicit guarantees about future financial backing, Howe replied, "No, and I didn’t seek any either." Nevertheless, he stressed that the tone of the meeting was one of determination and a desire to keep growing the club in every dimension. "The ambition to reach the top of the Premier League and to win as many trophies as possible remains unchanged," Howe said.
"As long as PIF are the majority owners, that ambition will not waver. They are very ambitious for the football club." He acknowledged that the infrastructure projects required to lift Newcastle to the next level – such as stadium upgrades and training‑ground improvements – cannot be completed "with the click of a finger" because they are tied to revenue streams and long‑term planning.
"Everyone wants to fast‑forward, but sometimes you need time to get it right," he added. Howe explained that these tough discussions are a regular part of his relationship with the owners. "Every year, regardless of our league position, I sit down with them and they probe the decisions we’ve made, the scenarios we’ve found ourselves in, and I explain the process behind each choice," he said.
This season, the questions were harder because of Newcastle’s current standing, but the nature of the dialogue remained the same – constructive and rooted in a shared commitment to the club’s future. The manager highlighted the excitement he feels about the long‑term outlook, even if short‑term results are disappointing. He reminded listeners that he has already taken Newcastle to the Champions League twice and broke a 70‑year wait for a major domestic trophy during his four‑and‑a‑half‑year tenure.
However, he admitted that the team’s league form this year has been below the standards he expects, a point that was evident during Thursday’s meeting. Speculation about Howe’s own future has intensified after a run of nine defeats in 12 Premier League games, leaving the Magpies in 14th place – eight points off European qualification but also eight points clear of the relegation zone.
Despite the pressure, Howe insisted his focus remains on moving the club forward. "I’ve never needed clarity on my future in the sense that I’m here, I’m working and I’m committed," he said.
"A football club has to do what a football club has to do." He emphasized that performance on the pitch is the ultimate proof of progress. "You can talk as much as you want, but the proof is in how the team performs.
I’m under no illusion that we need to be positive – we must be positive through results," Howe continued. He described his own motivation as high, noting that difficult periods force reflection and improvement. "Sometimes the most disappointing moments are when you improve the most," he added.
Looking ahead, Howe said he must retain confidence in his own position, because a lack of long‑term vision would serve no one. He stressed the importance of unity within the club and the responsibility he carries to deliver results. "I have to get results to keep that feeling and that trust.
It’s a responsibility that comes with the job," he affirmed. On the squad front, midfielder Joelinton is set to return after serving a two‑match ban, while Anthony Gordon may be back from a hip‑flexor injury. Their availability could provide a boost as Newcastle prepare to face Brighton at St James’ Park on Saturday.
The manager’s standing among peers remains strong. Sky Sports’ Paul Merson praised Howe, suggesting that if he were to leave, clubs like Chelsea would line up for his services and even the England job could be on the table. "He won a trophy for the club for the first time in 70 years," Merson said, urging Newcastle to back Howe properly. Former England defender Gary Neville also voiced support, acknowledging the disappointing season but urging faith in Howe.
He pointed to transfer missteps in the summer window – namely the signings of Nick Woltemade and Yoane Wissa – as factors that have yet to pay off. Nevertheless, Neville argued that Newcastle cannot afford to replace a manager who has delivered consistency, reliability and a strong attitude. Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie echoed the sentiment that PIF’s majority owners appear supportive despite the club’s struggles.
He noted that Howe’s comments highlighted unity and the owners’ ambition, even as Newcastle sits 14th. Downie warned that while PIF’s backing is present now, it may not last indefinitely if the team continues to lose matches. In summary, Eddie Howe left the high‑level meeting with a clear sense that the PIF’s commitment to Newcastle’s growth remains intact, even if the path forward requires patience, strategic investment and immediate improvement on the pitch.
The upcoming fixtures will be crucial in demonstrating whether the club can translate that long‑term vision into tangible results, and whether Howe’s confidence will be rewarded with continued tenure at the helm.