Eddie Howe releases emotional goodbye as Newcastle confirm coaching exodus
Today marks the turning of a new page at Newcastle United but also a day of sadness, as Eddie Howe walks away from his time on Tyneside.
His impending exit was confirmed in a bombshell announcement on Thursday morning, with Matthias Jaissle all set to replace the 48-year-old following a spell with Al Ahli.
Just before 4.30pm on Friday afternoon, Newcastle United have released an official statement, confirming Howe's exit after requesting to step down from his position as head coach.
Along with Howe, trusted coaching team Jason Tindall, Graeme Jones, Stephen Purches and Simon Weatherstone and Dan Hodges will also depart, with the club thanking Howe and staff for their 'extraordinary contribution.'
Howe: Now is the time leave and take a break
Speaking to the club's official website, Howe has released the following goodbye message following his decision to step down:
“After a period of personal reflection, I have decided that now is the right time for me to step away from my role as head coach of Newcastle United.
“After nearly five years of giving my life, heart and soul into the club with unrelenting energy, I feel that it is in the best interests of both myself and the club to step away, recharge and take a break.
“Although it’s been incredibly difficult to make this decision, I know in my heart that it’s the right one. I have always put the best interests of Newcastle before my own in every single decision I have made whilst I’ve been here and this one is no different.
“It has been the privilege of my lifetime to have been the manager of Newcastle United.
“It is difficult to put into words what this club, the city and its supporters mean, and will always mean, to me and my family. From the moment myself, Jason and all of the staff arrived nearly half a decade ago, Newcastle instantly felt like home and the people here welcomed us with open arms. We took huge pride in representing the club from day one and this city will always hold a very special place in our hearts.
“There have been so many incredible moments in our time here. From fighting relegation in our first season to the numerous unforgettable nights at St. James’ Park in the Champions League soon after. The progression was fast.
“Everyone came together, united and what a force we became, culminating in bringing home our first domestic trophy in 70 years. These are all memories that I will cherish for the rest of my life.
“I would like to put on record my sincere thanks and appreciation to Yasir Al-Rumayyan, Jamie Reuben, Jacobo Solís and everyone at PIF, David Hopkinson, Ross Wilson and the entire ownership and leadership group for placing their trust in me and for giving me the opportunity to lead this special football club.
“I remain incredibly positive and enthusiastic about the future of Newcastle. The club is in fantastic hands with a great leadership team and I have no doubt together, alongside whoever comes in to replace me, they will continue to deliver success on the pitch.
“Thank you to Jason Tindall, Graeme Jones, Stephen Purches, Simon Weatherstone, Dan Hodges, Andy Howe and Jordan Tribe for their incredible loyalty, support and dedication and to all of the amazing staff behind the scenes whose hard work and loyalty makes this club what it is.
“A special thank you to all of the players who have represented the club during my time here. Without you, nothing would have been possible and it’s been an honour to have coached you all.
“Finally, and most importantly, thank you to our incredible supporters. Your passion and loyalty have inspired me every single day. To stand on the touchline at St. James’ Park as your manager with the honour of representing your club has meant more to me than you will ever know.
“While my journey as manager has now come to an end, the affinity and love I will always hold for Newcastle United never will.
“Thank you for everything. I wish the club every success for the future.”
Regarding our next appointment, the club added: "The process to recruit a new head coach is at an advanced stage and updates will be communicated shortly."
All the best, Eddie!
We have nothing but good things to say about Eddie Howe and wish him every success in the future.
Whether that's in future club roles once he returns to management, with England one day or for a period of well-earned restpite with his wife and kids, Eddie deserves the best.
Howe has been the model professional all of these years. He always spoke with such class and respect. He won us a trophy, made two finals, qualified for the Champions League twice and improved so many of our players along the way, whether that's Joelinton's reinvention, Miggy's purple patch, Osula's recent development or Gordon's rise from a raw talent to a England regular.
Thank you for everything, Eddie.
