Eddie Howe has stepped down as Newcastle United head coach after nearly five years at the helm.
The 48-year-old leaves following a disappointing 2025-26 campaign in which the Magpies finished 12th in the Premier League and missed out on European qualification. Despite the difficult season, Howe oversaw one of the club's most successful modern eras, leading Newcastle to two Champions League qualifications and ending a 70-year wait for a major domestic trophy by winning the League Cup in the 2024-25 season.
"After a period of personal reflection, I have decided that now is the right time for me to step away from my role," Howe said.
He added: "After nearly five years of giving my life, heart and soul to the club with unrelenting energy, I believe it's in the best interests of both myself and Newcastle for me to step away, recharge and take a break. Although this has been an incredibly difficult decision, I know in my heart it's the right one. It has been the privilege of my lifetime to manage Newcastle United."
Newcastle also confirmed the departures of Howe's coaching staff, including Jason Tindall, Graeme Jones, Stephen Purches, Simon Weatherstone, and head of performance Dan Hodges.
Appointed in November 2021, Howe guided the club away from relegation danger before transforming Newcastle into Champions League contenders. His tenure included memorable European nights at St James' Park and a historic League Cup triumph.
His final game in charge was a 4-1 pre-season defeat to Bristol City on Wednesday.
The club said the search for a new head coach is at an advanced stage, with Matthias Jaissle emerging as the leading candidate to succeed Howe.
Newcastle chief executive David Hopkinson paid tribute to Howe's impact, saying the manager and his staff leave with the gratitude and respect of everyone at the club and have secured a lasting place in Newcastle United's history.
