By Francis Onyach - Reporter
Kenya, July 230 ,2026 - Newcastle United are set to appoint German coach Matthias Jaissle as their new head coach after reaching a verbal agreement on a long-term contract that will run until June 2030.
The appointment comes in the wake of Eddie Howe's departure, with Newcastle moving quickly to identify his successor ahead of the new Premier League season. Jaissle, currently in charge of Saudi Pro League side Al Ahli, has accepted Newcastle's proposal, and the formal paperwork is expected to be completed in the coming days. Al Ahli have already been informed of the decision.
Eddie Howe's Departure Accelerated the Search#
The managerial change follows the unexpected exit of Eddie Howe, who left Newcastle after nearly five years in charge.
Howe transformed Newcastle following the club's Saudi-backed takeover in 2021, steering them away from relegation before leading them to two UEFA Champions League qualifications and ending the club's 70-year wait for a major domestic trophy by winning the 2025 Carabao Cup.
Despite those achievements, the 2025-26 campaign proved difficult. Newcastle finished 12th in the Premier League, while internal disagreements over recruitment and transfer strategy reportedly left Howe feeling increasingly frustrated. According to multiple reports, the 48-year-old decided he needed a break from management, paving the way for the club to pursue a new direction.
Newcastle's search quickly focused on Matthias Jaissle, one of Europe's most highly rated young coaches.
The 38-year-old has built an impressive coaching résumé despite his relatively young age. After beginning his coaching career within the Red Bull system, Jaissle guided Red Bull Salzburg to consecutive Austrian Bundesliga titles and an Austrian Cup before taking over at Al Ahli in 2023.
His work in Saudi Arabia further enhanced his reputation. Under Jaissle, Al Ahli won the Saudi Super Cup and back-to-back AFC Champions League Elite titles while establishing themselves among the continent's strongest clubs.
One factor that has helped accelerate negotiations is the ownership structure of both clubs.
Newcastle United and Al Ahli are controlled by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF), making discussions between the clubs significantly smoother than a conventional managerial negotiation.
Although Jaissle remains under contract with Al Ahli, reports indicate there are no major obstacles preventing the move, with the Saudi club already informed of Newcastle's plans.
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Jaissle has earned widespread praise for his modern tactical approach.
His teams are known for:
- High-intensity pressing.
- Aggressive attacking football.
- Quick transitions.
- Tactical flexibility.
- Strong player development.
While heavily influenced by the Red Bull coaching philosophy, Jaissle has also shown an ability to adapt his system to different squads. At Al Ahli, he successfully managed experienced international stars while maintaining an energetic and disciplined style of play.
His work with young players during his time at Salzburg is also viewed as a major asset as Newcastle continue to invest in emerging talent.
The proposed contract until June 2030 demonstrates Newcastle's confidence in Jaissle as a long-term appointment rather than a short-term solution.
Club executives believe he possesses the tactical profile and leadership qualities needed to guide the next phase of Newcastle's ambitious project.
The Magpies have undergone significant changes this summer, including several high-profile departures, and the club sees Jaissle as the ideal coach to oversee the rebuilding process while maintaining its long-term objective of competing regularly in the Champions League.
Jaissle will inherit a squad undergoing major transition.
Newcastle have lost several key players during the transfer window, and replacing their quality while restoring confidence after a disappointing league campaign will be among his first priorities.
He will also face the challenge of succeeding one of the club's most successful modern managers. Howe remains highly respected on Tyneside for transforming Newcastle from relegation candidates into trophy winners and European competitors.
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