Eddie Howe says he left a club review this week convinced Newcastle’s Saudi owners remain committed to the long-term project, despite what he called “challenging conversations”.
The head coach spoke after meetings at Matfen Hall with representatives of the Public Investment Fund (PIF), which has held an 85% share in the club since taking control in October 2021. Howe described his talks with chairman Yasir Al-Rumayyan as constructive and said the owners’ ambition for the team was clear, even as PIF confirmed it will end funding of LIV Golf after the 2026 season.
Howe said he did not seek, nor was offered, any specific guarantees about future spending. Instead, he felt the message was one of determination to grow the club across all areas and to push towards the top of the Premier League. He stressed that major projects such as stadium and training-ground improvements will take time and are linked to revenue streams. “As much as everyone wants to fast forward that, sometimes these things, to get it right, take a bit of time,” he said.
The manager acknowledged the review involved tough questioning. Annual appraisals, he explained, probe decisions and processes, and this year’s scrutiny was sharper because of Newcastle’s league position. But he insisted the exchanges were evidence of how much the owners care about the club’s long-term planning. “It’s very exciting times ahead for the club, regardless of what happens short-term. The long-term vision is clearly there,” Howe added.
Howe’s record at St James’ Park includes guiding Newcastle into the Champions League twice and delivering the club’s first major domestic trophy in 70 years during his four-and-a-half years in charge. Yet he admitted the current season has been disappointing. A run of nine defeats in 12 league games has left Newcastle 14th — eight points outside European qualification but the same margin clear of the relegation zone.
Amid widespread debate over his future, Howe said he remains focused and motivated. He argued that a manager must be results-driven but also retain belief in the long-term plan. He added that difficult spells can prompt useful reassessment and improvement. “I’m invigorated. My motivation levels are really high,” he said, noting that poor runs force a re-evaluation of everything involved in the team.
Howe stressed he needs to keep confidence about being at the club next season because a long-term approach is essential, but emphasised that winning matches is the immediate priority. He accepted the responsibility that comes with his role and the need to deliver positive performances to maintain trust within the club.
On team news, Joelinton is available after serving a two-match suspension and Anthony Gordon could return from a hip flexor issue ahead of the Brighton game at St James’ Park.
Sky Sports pundits have publicly backed Howe amid the scrutiny. Paul Merson warned against sacking him, suggesting clubs would queue for a manager of Howe’s calibre and that any departure should be on the manager’s terms. Gary Neville, while calling the season “really disappointing” and critical of last summer’s transfer business, urged the board to offer full support, described Howe as “one of the very best”, and predicted he could guide Newcastle back into Champions League contention next season.