The pressure is mounting on Eddie Howe at Newcastle United after a disappointing start to the Premier League season that has seen the Magpies slump to 14th place.
Just a short time ago, the English manager appeared to have a secure future at St James' Park. However, with just three wins from their opening eleven league games, the possibility of a managerial change no longer seems remote.
Why is Eddie Howe under pressure?
Newcastle's pre-season preparations were severely disrupted by the prolonged transfer saga involving star striker Alexander Isak, compounded by the club's failure to secure several key targets. The campaign began with respectable performances, with defeats only coming against established heavyweights like Liverpool, Arsenal and Barcelona.
The situation has deteriorated significantly with three losses in their last four Premier League matches, casting a shadow over the club. While the club's owners have indicated no immediate plans for a change in the dugout, this stance is understood to be contingent on results improving swiftly.
Potential replacements for Eddie Howe
Should the club decide to make a change, or if Howe chooses to step down, several high-profile names are already being considered as potential successors.
Andoni Iraola
Andoni Iraola has emerged as one of the most admired managers in the league after his impressive work at Bournemouth. The Spaniard has been linked with both Manchester United and Chelsea this season, highlighting his growing reputation.
He has demonstrated a remarkable ability to achieve success with a squad operating on a limited budget, consistently losing key players each summer. His fresh, attacking philosophy could ignite Newcastle's talented squad, and the club's greater resources and European ambitions represent a logical next step for the innovative coach.
Oliver Glasner
Another manager who has made a significant impact in English football is Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner. The Austrian secured the club's first major piece of silverware last season and has transformed the Eagles into a formidable opponent.
Newcastle's financial power could tempt him to take on a bigger project, especially given his proven track record of elevating mid-table teams. Glasner also brings valuable European pedigree, having guided Eintracht Frankfurt to Europa League glory in 2022, which aligns perfectly with Newcastle's continental aspirations.
Xavi
Appointing Xavi would represent a major gamble for the Newcastle hierarchy, but one with a potentially huge payoff. The Spaniard has been out of work since leaving Barcelona at the end of the 2023/24 season, making him the only free agent among the leading candidates.
His legendary playing career would bring instant glamour and star power to the project, an attribute likely appreciated by the club's owners, PIF. However, his limited managerial experience, particularly in England, is a clear concern. His commitment to possession-based football would also mark a dramatic shift from Howe's more physical, counter-attacking style.
Kieran McKenna
Kieran McKenna was the talk of English football after achieving back-to-back promotions with Ipswich Town, guiding them to the Premier League against all odds. Although a disappointing campaign ended in relegation, his reputation for succeeding with underdogs remains intact.
His approach, which focuses on player development and utilises data-backed coaching, could be an excellent fit for Newcastle as they seek to rediscover their form. McKenna's tactical flexibility and ability to inspire his squad make him a modern, forward-thinking option for the Magpies, representing a bold but potentially brilliant appointment.
What happens next for Newcastle?
The immediate future of Eddie Howe rests on the team's ability to reverse their current form. While the owners have offered public support, the reality of modern football means that patience is often short-lived when results are poor.
The next few weeks will be critical in determining whether Howe remains at the helm or if Newcastle United decide to embark on a new managerial direction with one of these four candidates.
