Newcastle United are poised to unveil Matthias Jaissle as their new head coach on Saturday, after the club officially confirmed the exit of Eddie Howe. Sky Sports News reports that Newcastle have reached an agreement to pay a compensation fee of roughly £9.5 million (about €11 million) to Saudi Arabian side Al Ahli for the release of Jaissle. The 38‑year‑old German, best known for his successful spell at Red Bull Salzburg, will sign a four‑year contract to take charge at St James' Park.
The plan is for Jaissle to join his new squad in Spain on Saturday, where Newcastle are holding a pre‑season training camp in La Manga. This will give the manager a chance to meet the players, assess the squad and begin implementing his tactical ideas ahead of the upcoming season. His first official assignment will be a friendly against Valencia at the Mestalla stadium the following Saturday, providing a first glimpse of his approach against a strong Spanish side.
Jaissle's appointment comes on the heels of Newcastle's formal announcement on Friday that Eddie Howe would step down as manager. The club had delayed releasing Howe's statement until the Jaissle deal was sealed, ensuring a smooth transition. Howe, 48, left the club after a historic tenure that included ending a 70‑year wait for major domestic silverware by winning the Carabao Cup in 2025 and guiding the Magpies to two consecutive Champions League qualifications. In a heartfelt 547‑word statement, Howe explained that after nearly five years of giving his all to the club, he felt the time was right to step away, recharge and take a break.
He described his spell at Newcastle as "the privilege of his lifetime" and expressed deep affection for the club, the city and its supporters. Newcastle chief executive David Hopkinson praised Howe and his staff, saying they leave with the "deep gratitude and respect of everyone at Newcastle United" and a permanent place in the club's history. Hopkinson acknowledged the disappointment at Howe's departure but thanked him for his extraordinary contribution, wishing him and his family success and happiness in the future.
Following Howe's exit, his coaching team – Jason Tindall, Graeme Jones, Stephen Purches and Simon Weatherstone – along with head of performance Dan Hodges, will also leave the club. The announcement sparked a wave of tributes from players and fans alike.
Captain Bruno Guimarães posted an Instagram tribute, calling Howe the "king of this club" and thanking him for making Guimarães a better player and person. Guimarães' message highlighted the personal bond they shared and underscored Howe's impact beyond the pitch. At the same time, Arsenal were reported to be monitoring Guimarães, adding another layer of intrigue to the club's off‑field narrative.
In addition to the managerial change, Newcastle are also active in the transfer market. The club has reached an agreement in principle with Portuguese side Braga for the acquisition of 24‑year‑old Czech goalkeeper Lukáš Horníček.
Newcastle intend to trigger his release clause, reported to be £25.7 million (€30 million), and are currently negotiating payment terms. Horníček has been given permission to travel for a medical, and his signing would mark Newcastle's fifth summer acquisition, bringing the total summer spend to around £140 million.
The incoming Jaissle brings a modern, high‑pressing philosophy that has proven effective in Austria with Salzburg, where he guided the team to multiple league titles and deep runs in European competition. Known for developing young talent and employing a fluid, attacking style, Jaissle is expected to build on the foundations laid by Howe while injecting fresh ideas.
His experience in European competitions could also prove valuable as Newcastle aim to cement their place in the Champions League and compete on multiple fronts. Fans can stay updated on the latest developments through Sky Sports' various platforms, including their WhatsApp channel, which offers news, videos, analysis and more. The club also encourages supporters to download the Sky Sports app for real‑time alerts and to use Chrome for an optimal video viewing experience.
Overall, Newcastle United are entering a new chapter. While the departure of a beloved manager like Eddie Howe inevitably brings mixed emotions, the appointment of Matthias Jaissle signals the club's ambition to continue progressing both domestically and in Europe.
With a refreshed coaching staff, a promising goalkeeper signing, and a clear strategic direction, the Magpies are set to embark on the 2026/27 season with renewed optimism and a clear vision for the future.