Newcastle United are looking to Dan Burn and Fabian Schar to fill the leadership void left by the departure of captain Bruno Guimaraes, who has followed fellow one-time team-mates out of the club. The club has been urged to sign experience for the first time this summer, as young players alone may not be enough over a long season.
Senior players must step up
The most obvious leaders are Dan Burn (34), Fabian Schar (34), Joelinton (30 next week), and Harvey Barnes (28). All are internationals with extensive first-team experience and deeply embedded in Newcastle's culture.
Nick Pope (34) will almost certainly leave before the transfer window closes. If Jacob Murphy (31) and Joe Willock (27 later this month) remain, they must also contribute, given their significant wages.
Yoane Wissa (29), Nick Woltemade (24), and Anthony Elanga (24) may be focused on saving their Newcastle careers after a poor first season, but they are seasoned internationals and should also help. Sven Botman (26) has enough experience to offer guidance, while Malick Thiaw and Jacob Ramsey (both 25) are expected to add their thoughts.
Leadership void
United are desperately short of real leaders following the exits of Bruno and Kieran Trippier. Their absence will be felt not only for their footballing quality but also for their ability to inspire those around them. Someone must step into that void.
Burn and Schar are the prime candidates. Burn is just back from a World Cup campaign with England, while Schar has extensive experience. Both have captained the side and carry authority and experience to guide younger players.
Burn, though aging, remains an England squad member, though his future under Thomas Tuchel is uncertain. His career has been a fairytale.
Need for new signings
Newcastle still require an influx of experience alongside the five young recruits already signed. A mature midfielder, a right-back ready to start, and a left-back to cover Lewis Hall are priorities. A striker would be welcome but is not expected.
New manager Jaissle
Matthias Jaissle, officially announced as United's boss days after taking the job, has moved quickly to reassure fans. He will not tear up Eddie Howe's playbook, instead setting up his team similarly with high intensity and front-foot football.
"My teams are built on togetherness, hard work, intensity, and a passion to improve every single day," were his first words to the Geordie public. He is more flexible tactically and more willing to change structure during matches.
The proof will come in results. Jaissle faces tests against Isak's Liverpool and Tonali's Spurs early on. He is currently working with the squad in La Manga. It will be intriguing, informative, and crucial.
