Football NewsThe GuardianUnverified source· 8 Sept 2026
Newcastle planned for Howe exit months in advance
Sporting director reveals long-term planning for manager change before Howe's surprise July exit.
Newcastle
team
Who
Ross Wilson
What
Revealed planning for manager change
When
Started at beginning of year
Where
Newcastle United
What happened. Newcastle's sporting director Ross Wilson said the club began planning for Eddie Howe's departure at the start of the year, months before Howe stepped down in July.
- Wilson arrived from Nottingham Forest 10-11 months ago.
- Planning for a managerial change spanned 8-9 months.
- Matthias Jaissle was always part of the planning process.
“Eddie leaving didn’t feel chaotic and it didn’t feel painful.”
— Ross Wilson
The club has since appointed Matthias Jaissle as Howe's successor, continuing their long-prepared transition.
Read the full story at The Guardian →
E. HoweMore to read
Mirror Football
Who is Matthias Jaissle and why did Eddie Howe leave Newcastle?
Football.London
Bruno Guimaraes' emotional farewell message to Eddie Howe after Newcastle exit sealed
Sky Sports
Newcastle to appoint Jaissle as new boss tomorrow after Howe exit confirmed
Daily Mail Football
Eddie Howe sends emotional message to Newcastle fans as club confirms bombshell exit - and labels his five-year spell at St James' Park a 'privilege of my lifetime'
