Manager Howe to leave Newcastle with immediate effect

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe is set to leave the club with immediate effect, according to sources speaking to BBC Sport. The 48‑year‑old oversaw a season in which the Magpies finished 12th in the Premier League, losing 17 of their 38 matches. His final game in charge was a 4‑1 pre‑season friendly defeat to Bristol City on Wednesday. Well‑placed sources said they were surprised by Howe’s reaction to the club’s transfer activity this summer, although he acknowledged the necessity of player sales. Earlier in the year Howe had opted to remain at St James’ Park despite the expected departures, but his position shifted over the close season. Newcastle invested roughly £240 million in new players 12 months ago, a figure that frustrated Howe after the sale of striker Alexander Isak to Liverpool. This summer he has lost two key men: Sandro Tonali moved to Tottenham and Anthony Gordon joined Barcelona, while Arsenal continue to pursue captain Bruno Guimaraes. Howe took over from Steve Bruce in November 2021. Under his leadership Newcastle ended a 70‑year wait for a major domestic trophy by capturing the 2025 Carabao Cup. He also secured Champions League qualification for the club in both 2023 and 2025. Last season the Magpies reached the Champions League last‑16 before succumbing 8‑3 on aggregate to Barcelona. Their defence of the EFL Cup concluded in the semi‑finals, while league form proved disappointing after a fifth‑place finish in the 2024‑25 campaign.