Howe’s done: Time for Newcastle to show ambition and go all out for ‘elite’ manager, he’s ready

Newcastle United have endured a frustrating and underwhelming campaign, with one recurring issue proving particularly damaging—their inability to hold onto winning positions. No team in the Premier League has dropped more points from leads this season, a statistic that perfectly sums up their struggles. It’s a worrying trend that has not only cost them valuable points but has also raised serious questions about the direction of the club under Eddie Howe.

Expectations were far higher heading into the season, especially after the club’s significant investment and steady progress in recent years. However, instead of pushing forward, Newcastle have regressed. Sitting down in 14th place, far from both the European spots and the relegation zone, the Magpies have found themselves stuck in a disappointing middle ground. To make matters worse, their cup campaigns have also ended in failure, leaving them with little left to fight for beyond pride and a late, unlikely push for continental qualification.

Their most recent setback against Crystal Palace only reinforced the narrative of a team lacking composure and control in crucial moments. Newcastle once again looked set to secure all three points, only to let victory slip through their fingers in dramatic fashion. Deep into stoppage time, Jean-Philippe Mateta stepped up and calmly converted a penalty, punishing Newcastle’s defensive lapse and ensuring yet another game ended in frustration for Howe’s side. It was a familiar story—one that has been repeated far too often this season.

Behind the scenes, the club’s ownership group, led by Public Investment Fund, are unlikely to be satisfied with how the campaign has unfolded. With their ambitious long-term vision of turning Newcastle into a consistent force both domestically and in Europe, a season like this falls well below expectations. While there is still a slim chance of salvaging something through a late surge into the European places, the reality is that the damage may already be done.

As a result, attention is increasingly turning toward the future—and specifically toward the managerial position. There is a growing sense that Howe may have taken the team as far as he can. While he deserves immense credit for stabilizing the club and guiding them to previous successes, football is often ruthless, and progression is demanded year after year. If the current trajectory continues, Newcastle’s hierarchy may feel compelled to make a bold decision.

One of the biggest concerns has been Howe’s apparent inability to maximize the squad at his disposal. Newcastle invested heavily during the summer transfer window, bringing in fresh talent with the expectation of improving depth and quality. However, those additions have not had the desired impact. In fact, selections in key matches have raised eyebrows. Against Crystal Palace, players such as Yoane Wissa, Nick Woltemade, and Anthony Elanga—each signed to strengthen the squad—were left on the bench, sparking questions about how effectively resources are being utilized.

Despite the growing pressure, making an immediate managerial change before the end of the season may not be the most logical step. Stability, even in difficult moments, can sometimes be beneficial in the short term. However, once the campaign concludes, Newcastle’s leadership will have to make a critical decision about whether to continue with Howe or begin a new chapter.

If they do opt for change, it’s clear that Newcastle will need to think big. With the financial backing of PIF, the club has the capacity to attract high-profile managerial talent. This is not a project that should settle for mediocrity—it’s one that aims for the very top. As such, any potential replacement must align with those ambitions.

One name already being linked with a possible move is Xabi Alonso. Widely regarded as one of the brightest managerial minds in modern football, Alonso has built a reputation for his tactical intelligence and ability to develop dynamic, attacking teams. Having previously impressed at Bayer Leverkusen, he is seen as a coach capable of leading a club into a new era.

Reports suggest that Alonso could be open to returning to management following a recent departure from Real Madrid, and Newcastle could present an intriguing opportunity. While the Magpies may not yet be at the elite level of Europe’s biggest clubs, they offer something equally appealing—a well-funded project with enormous potential. For a manager like Alonso, who has already shown a willingness to build and shape teams, this could be an ideal environment.

Of course, attracting a coach of his calibre may depend on Newcastle’s ability to offer European football. Competing on the continental stage not only enhances the club’s appeal but also aligns with the expectations of top-tier managers. Without it, convincing someone like Alonso could prove more challenging—but not impossible, given the club’s resources and long-term vision.

Ultimately, Newcastle United find themselves at a crossroads. This season has exposed significant flaws, from their inability to close out matches to questions surrounding squad management and tactical decisions. Whether those issues can be resolved under Eddie Howe remains uncertain. What is clear, however, is that the club’s ambitions demand progress—and if that progress cannot be achieved with the current setup, then a bold and decisive change may be on the horizon.