Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has seen his authority erode after a summer of upheaval, culminating in a 14th-place Premier League finish with 42 points (12W-6D-15L) and a -3 goal difference (46 scored, 49 conceded).
What changed for Eddie Howe?
Last September, chief executive David Hopkinson compared Howe to Bruce Springsteen, pledging to give him 'whatever he wants.' But by March, after an 8-3 Champions League aggregate loss to Barcelona and a home defeat to Sunderland, Hopkinson’s stance had shifted. Howe survived a crunch meeting with Saudi ownership in April, but his power had already waned.
Why did Howe lose control?
Howe’s influence peaked under former co-owner Amanda Staveley, who backed his recruitment decisions. But after Staveley’s 2024 exit, conflicts arose. The departures of sporting directors Dan Ashworth and Paul Mitchell, coupled with Howe’s £240m summer spending spree-including Nick Woltemade (£69m) and Yoane Wissa (£55m)-failed to offset Alexander Isak’s £125m move to Liverpool. Only Malick Thiaw impressed.
What’s next for Newcastle United?
With key players like Isak, Sven Botman, and Joelinton sidelined, Howe’s tactical plans face scrutiny. The club, 28 points behind leaders Arsenal, must regroup before the new season. Howe’s future hinges on regaining control-or risking further decline.
