Newcastle may be dragged into relegation fight after Eddie Howe’s shock departure

Newcastle United supporters were stunned by the shock resignation of manager Eddie Howe this week. 

The 48-year-old twice led them into the Champions League and ended their 70-year domestic trophy drought by winning the 2024/25 League Cup. 

Al-Ahli boss Matthias Jaissle is poised to replace Howe. He has built a reputation as a forward-thinking manager who favours a high-intensity playing style. 

However, he hasn’t managed a top European club, and his task at Newcastle will not be easy.  

The German boss will not have the services of star duo Anthony Gordon or Sandro Tonali. 

Captain Bruno Guimaraes is nearing an exit, with Arsenal in advanced talks to finalise a move.

Lewis Hall could also push for a transfer, with Manchester United keen on him. 

Newcastle had all their big stars last season but still endured a disappointing campaign, finishing 12th in the Premier League. 

With Howe gone and the squad devoid of some of their key players, a relegation battle is a possibility.

However, they still boast quality in their ranks and are expected to make a few more top-class additions before the end of the transfer window. 

It would be a shock if they were relegated to the Championship, but the same could have been said about West Ham United last season.

Tottenham Hotspur have finished 17th for the past two seasons, highlighting that so-called big clubs are not guaranteed to be successful.

Given that Newcastle have won one trophy in 70 years, they would be well advised not to think that relegation isn’t a possibility.