Newcastle have four options to replace Eddie Howe mid-season as owners’ sack stance emerges

Newcastle haven’t started well this season, with Eddie Howe’s side languishing in 14th in the table – here are four managers who could replace the Englishman mid-season

It wasn’t long ago that Eddie Howe seemed untouchable. But after a stuttering start to the new season – with Newcastle winning just three of their opening 11 league games – the idea of a parting of ways between club and manager no longer feels far-fetched.

To be fair to the Englishman, he’s been dealt a bit of of a bum hand. Newcastle’s pre-season was completely disrupted by the prolonged Alexander Isak saga, during which the club also missed out on several key transfer targets.

The campaign began respectably enough, with defeats only coming against heavyweights like Liverpool, Arsenal and Barcelona. But three losses in their last four Premier League outings have seen the Magpies slip to 14th in the table, casting a shadow over St James’ Park.

Earlier this week, it emerged that Newcastle’s owners have no immediate plans to make a managerial change. Still, if poor results persist, that stance could quickly shift.

With that in mind, we take a look at four potential candidates who could replace Howe should he be dismissed – or decide to step down – mid-season.

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Andoni Iraola

Linked with both Manchester United and Chelsea this season, Andoni Iraola is clearly an admired man. He’s worked wonders at Bournemouth, proving he can punch above his weight with a squad that doesn’t have the biggest budget – and one that loses key players more or less every summer.

Bringing his fresh, attacking ideas to Newcastle could really light a spark in their talented squad, while the club’s bigger resources and dreams of European glory could be the perfect next adventure for this innovative Spaniard.

Iraola’s all about blending in young talent with high-energy play – attributes that suit Newcastle’s current setup. His smooth adjustment to English football makes him a intriguing pick, but they may need to act fast to stop him falling into enemy hands.

Oliver Glasner

Another man who’s hit the ground running in English football is Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner. Not only did the Austrian landed the club’s first piece of major silverware last season but has also transformed them into a team nobody relishes facing.

Newcastle’s financial muscle could tempt him into taking on a bigger challenge, particularly given his reputation for elevating mid-table teams. That said, Glasner may have his sights set even higher, with reported interest from Manchester United and Bayern Munich.

Having guided Eintracht Frankfurt to Europa League glory in 2022, Glasner brings proven European pedigree – exactly the kind of experience a club with Newcastle’s continental ambitions would value. His teams marry defensive discipline with attacking flair, an ideal blend for a Newcastle team looking to claw their way back up the table.

Xavi

Appointing Xavi would be a significant gamble – but one that could pay off handsomely. The Spaniard has been out of work since leaving Barcelona at the end of the 2023/24 season, making him the only free agent on this list. His stellar playing career would also inject instant star power and a touch of glamour into the Newcastle project – the kind of sheen the PIF are sure to appreciate.

However, his limited managerial experience – not just in England, but overall – remains a clear concern. At their best, his Barcelona side were scintillating, winning La Liga in 2022/23. At their worst, they were worryingly fragile at the back.

Xavi’s devotion to possession-based football would mark a sharp departure from Newcastle’s more physical, counter-attacking approach under Howe. But that same philosophy might be exactly what the Magpies need to evolve into a more complete and entertaining side.

Kieran McKenna

At the start of last season, Kieran McKenna was the talk of the town, having led Ipswich to the Premier League against all odds after back-to-back promotions. But after a disappointing campaign which ended in relegation, the bloom is off the rose a little.

Even so, his track record of succeeding with underdogs could be a great match for Newcastle as they aim to find their groove. The club’s deep pockets could also play right into his smart, data-backed coaching.

McKenna’s all about developing players rather than simply buying new ones – which could breathe new life into Newcastle’s squad. Plus, his tactical flexibility and ability to inspire make him a modern, forward-thinking option for the Magpies.

It would be a bold appointment – but potentially a brilliant one.

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