Newcastle United have officially announced Matthias Jaissle as their new head coach. The 38-year-old German replaces Eddie Howe after the club finalised all the necessary documentation for his appointment.
Jaissle has already joined the team at their pre-season training base in La Manga. Newcastle paid around £9 million in compensation to release him from his contract with Al-Ahli. He now shifts focus to preparing the squad for the upcoming Premier League season.
Jaissle ready to take on the Newcastle project
In his first comments after the move, Jaissle said he felt proud to take on such an important role. He mentioned the club’s rich heritage, its strong identity, and the loyal fanbase as key reasons for joining.
He also spoke about the club’s long-term plans and the steady growth seen in recent years. According to Jaissle, those elements made the decision straightforward. He believes the team has a strong foundation and that the future holds plenty of promise under the current leadership.
Newcastle put their faith in a proven winner
Jaissle brings a strong track record to St James’ Park. He won back-to-back Austrian Bundesliga titles with RB Salzburg before moving to Al-Ahli in 2023, where he claimed two consecutive Asian Champions League crowns.
His appointment also strengthens the link with the club’s ownership group. Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, which holds a majority stake in Newcastle, took control of four Saudi Pro League clubs in 2023, including Al-Ahli.
Chief executive David Hopkinson said the club ran a thorough search before settling on Jaissle. He described the new boss as one of the most exciting young coaches in the game and said he fits the profile the club was looking for.
Howe leaves a strong mark at Newcastle
Jaissle takes over from Eddie Howe, who left the club on Friday after nearly five years in charge.
Howe arrived in November 2021, just after Amanda Staveley’s consortium completed its takeover. With significant backing in the transfer market, he steered the team away from the bottom of the table, reconnected the squad with the supporters, and secured a return to the Champions League.
His time at the club also included a historic moment in March 2025, when Newcastle won the Carabao Cup, their first major domestic trophy in 70 years. However, a tough 2025-26 season ultimately led to his exit.
Big challenges await Jaissle in the Premier League
Newcastle enter the new campaign with a much-changed squad. The departure of Alexander Isak to Liverpool before the last season was a major blow. This summer, Kieran Trippier, Anthony Gordon, and Sandro Tonali have also moved on.
There is also ongoing speculation about captain Bruno Guimaraes, with Arsenal reportedly interested. Jaissle now has to manage this period of transition as Newcastle prepare to open their Premier League campaign at home to Liverpool on August 23.
Despite the uncertainty, the new head coach remains optimistic. He said he fully trusts the club’s direction and its leadership. He added that Newcastle has a clear plan, strong backing, and a solid base to build on for the years ahead.