Newcastle United have appointed Matthias Jaissle as their new head coach following the departure of Eddie Howe, the Premier League club announced on Wednesday.

The 38-year-old German arrives at St James’ Park after a successful spell with Saudi Arabian club Al-Ahli, where he guided the team to continental success. Despite having no previous experience managing in one of Europe’s top five leagues, Newcastle expressed confidence in Jaissle’s ability to lead the club into a new era.

Speaking after his appointment, Jaissle described the opportunity as one of the biggest moments of his coaching career, saying he was honoured to take charge of one of England’s most historic football clubs.

Jaissle eager for new challenge

“It is an incredible honour to become head coach of Newcastle United,” Jaissle said after signing his contract.

He praised the club’s rich history, passionate supporters and ambitious vision, adding that Newcastle’s recent progress made the role an attractive opportunity.

According to him, the club’s long-term plans and commitment to competing at the highest level convinced him that Newcastle was the right destination for the next stage of his managerial career.

Jaissle also said he had closely followed Newcastle’s transformation in recent years and looked forward to building on the foundation already established at the club.

Coaching journey

Jaissle’s playing career was cut short by injury at the age of 25, prompting him to move into coaching at an early stage.

He began his managerial career with Austrian side Liefering, leading the club to a second-place finish in the second division, equalling its best-ever league performance.

His success earned him promotion to Red Bull Salzburg in 2021, where he won back-to-back Austrian Bundesliga titles as well as the Austrian Cup.

In 2023, he moved to Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli and enjoyed further success, guiding the club to AFC Champions League triumphs in both 2025 and 2026.

Replacing Eddie Howe

Jaissle succeeds Eddie Howe, who transformed Newcastle after taking charge in November 2021.

Howe guided the Magpies to their first major trophy in more than five decades when they defeated Liverpool to win the League Cup in 2025. He also secured UEFA Champions League qualification in 2023 and again in 2025, restoring Newcastle’s status among England’s leading clubs.

However, last season proved challenging as Newcastle finished 12th in the Premier League after suffering 17 defeats in 38 matches. The club also exited the UEFA Champions League in the round of 16 following an 8-3 aggregate defeat to Barcelona.

Newcastle have also seen key players depart during the current transfer window, with Sandro Tonali joining Tottenham Hotspur and Anthony Gordon completing a move to Barcelona. The club will now look to Jaissle to rebuild the squad and guide the Magpies back into contention for domestic and European honours.