Newcastle United have unveiled Matthias Jaissle as their new head coach, succeeding Eddie Howe at St James' Park. The 38-year-old German has signed a long-term contract, marking a new era under the club's PIF ownership, which sanctioned the move for the former Al-Ahli manager.
Appointment confirmed after delay
The announcement was delayed due to paperwork held up at Al-Ahli, but Jaissle has been with the players since Saturday after agreeing to take on the role.
Jaissle said: "It is an incredible honour to become head coach of Newcastle United. This is one of the biggest clubs in European football, with a unique history, identity and supporter base, and I am excited to experience that passion and connection first-hand."
"When Newcastle United comes your way, you take notice. The ambition of the club, the vision for the future and the opportunity ahead made this an incredibly compelling place to be. I have followed the club's journey closely in recent years and the progress that has been made is clear for everyone to see."
Vision for the future
Speaking about the project after Newcastle signed young players such as Ewen Jaouen, Aladji Bamba, Bazoumana Touré, Lukáš Horníček and Sean Stuer, Jaissle said: "I am incredibly excited about the future. I fully and unreservedly believe in this project, the ambition and the direction the club is taking. There is a clear vision, strong leadership and an exceptional platform to build on."
"My teams are built on togetherness, hard work, intensity and a passion to improve every single day. I will bring full commitment, full energy and a determination to give everything I have to help this club achieve its ambitions."
"I believe there is enormous potential within this squad and throughout the football club. I am excited to work with the players, staff and leadership team to help take the club forward. I cannot wait to get started and will attack this opportunity. I give my complete commitment and total energy to bringing further success to Newcastle United."
Club statement praises credentials
A Newcastle statement read: "United are delighted to announce the appointment of Matthias Jaissle as the club's new head coach. Widely recognised as one of Europe’s leading young coaches, the 38-year-old German arrives on Tyneside following remarkable success with both Red Bull Salzburg and Al-Ahli."
"Following a thorough, rigorous and confidential recruitment process, Matthias emerged as the clear outstanding candidate to lead the club into an exciting new chapter."
"At just 33 years of age, Matthias was appointed head coach of Red Bull Salzburg and enjoyed immediate success in Austria, winning a domestic double in his first season. He also guided the club to the UEFA Champions League knockout stages for the first time in their history before securing a second consecutive league title and further European progress in the UEFA Europa League."
"After joining Al-Ahli, he quickly transformed the side into one of Asia's leading teams, securing qualification for the AFC Champions League in his first season. He leaves after leading the club to back-to-back AFC Champions League titles, becoming the first coach to achieve the feat."
"Matthias’ ability to develop players, build resilient, cohesive and high-energy teams, and contribute to elite high-performance environments has distinguished him throughout his coaching career. Just as importantly, his football philosophy and leadership style are strongly aligned with the direction, ambitions and culture of Newcastle United."
The statement concluded: "Matthias begins his role immediately and his coaching team at Newcastle United will be announced shortly."
