Eddie Howe left Matfen Hall on Thursday convinced that the Saudi‑backed Public Investment Fund (PIF), which owns 85 percent of Newcastle United, continues to stand firmly behind the club’s long‑term ambition to become a global powerhouse. After a season that fell short of expectations, the 48‑year‑old manager said his recent talks with the owners were constructive and reinforced the belief that the financial backers are still eager to see Newcastle grow on and off the pitch.
The discussions, which Howe described as “challenging conversations,” involved Yasir Al‑Rumayyan, chairman of both the club and PIF. They took place at the same time the Saudis announced that they will cease funding LIV Golf at the end of the 2026 season, a venture that has already absorbed more than $5 billion (£3.7 billion). Despite the shift in that separate investment, Howe said he did not receive any explicit guarantees about future funding for Newcastle, but he also did not request any.
Instead, he highlighted the tone of the meeting: a clear determination to succeed and a willingness to keep investing in the club’s development. "The desire is unchanged – to reach the top of the Premier League and to win as many trophies as possible on a regular basis," Howe told reporters. "As long as PIF remains the majority shareholder, I don’t see that ambition waning.
They are very ambitious for the football side of the business." He went on to explain that the process of elevating Newcastle is not instantaneous. Upgrades to the stadium, the training complex, and other infrastructure require time and are closely linked to the club’s revenue streams. "Everyone wants to fast‑forward, but you have to get it right, and that takes a bit of patience," he added. When asked about the nature of the meetings, Howe said that each year, regardless of league position, the owners pose tough questions about decisions, results and strategic direction.
This season’s queries were “slightly more difficult” because of the club’s current standing – 14th in the Premier League, eight points off European qualification but also eight points clear of the relegation zone. Nonetheless, Howe stressed that the dialogue remained constructive, reflecting the owners’ genuine care for the club’s long‑term planning across multiple levels. "It’s very exciting times ahead for the club, irrespective of short‑term outcomes.
The long‑term vision is clearly there," he affirmed. Howe’s tenure at Newcastle has already delivered two Champions League qualifications and a historic domestic trophy that ended a 70‑year wait for the Magpies. However, the recent run of form – nine defeats in twelve league games – has put the manager under intense scrutiny. Critics and fans alike have questioned whether he will remain after the season, especially as Newcastle prepares to host Brighton at St James’ Park.
The manager dismissed any need for personal reassurance about his future. "I’ve never needed clarity in my head about the future.
I’m here, I’m working and I’m committed. A football club has to do what a football club has to do," Howe said. He emphasized that the club must demonstrate progress on the pitch, noting that “the proof is in how the team performs.” He also spoke about his own motivation, insisting that he feels invigorated rather than needing a reinvigoration. "My motivation levels are really high.
Difficult runs force you to re‑evaluate everything and improve. Sometimes the most disappointing moments are when you learn the most," he reflected. Looking ahead, Howe said he must retain confidence in his own position, because a lack of long‑term vision would serve no one. "We need to win games.
I feel there’s unity within the football club, but I’m under no illusion – I have to get results to keep that trust. It’s a responsibility that comes with the job," he added. On the squad front, midfielder Joelinton is set to return after serving a two‑match suspension, while winger Anthony Gordon may be back from a hip‑flexor injury. Their availability could provide a boost as the team fights to climb the table.
The manager’s future has also become a topic of speculation among pundits. Sky Sports’ Paul Merson praised Howe, suggesting that if he left, clubs like Chelsea would line up for his services and even speculated about a potential England job. Former England defender Gary Neville, meanwhile, defended Howe’s position despite the dip in form, citing poor transfer activity over the summer and urging the club to back the manager fully. Neville argued that Newcastle’s recent signings – Nick Woltemade and Yoane Wissa – have not yet delivered the expected impact, but he believes that maintaining faith in Howe is the correct path.
He warned that losing Howe would be a significant blow, describing him as an “eight‑and‑a‑half out of ten” manager: reliable, consistent, and possessing a great attitude. Keith Downie of Sky Sports News echoed the sentiment that PIF appears supportive of Newcastle’s challenges and understands the reasons behind the season’s disappointment. He noted that while Howe received “challenging questions,” there was a sense of backing and understanding from the owners.
Downie also highlighted that Howe’s future remains uncertain, contingent on results in the remaining fixtures. In summary, Eddie Howe left Matfen Hall convinced that the Saudi‑backed PIF remains dedicated to Newcastle’s ascent, even as the club navigates a difficult league campaign. The manager’s message was clear: the owners are still ambitious, the long‑term plan is intact, and the focus now must be on turning results around to keep the vision alive.
The coming weeks will be crucial for both Howe’s tenure and Newcastle’s pursuit of a return to the upper echelons of English football.