Manchester United are said to be closely monitoring the situation of Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe, with speculation brewing over the long-term future of the Englishman at St. James’ Park. Howe, who has been instrumental in Newcastle’s resurgence since joining the club in 2021, now faces an uncertain period amid growing pressure and potential internal concerns about his ability to take the club to the next level. This has sparked interest from Manchester United, who could look to Howe as a potential successor if Erik ten Hag’s reign at Old Trafford takes an unexpected turn.
Eddie Howe’s Success at Newcastle
Eddie Howe’s tenure at Newcastle has been nothing short of impressive. When he took over in November 2021, the Magpies were struggling near the bottom of the Premier League table. In less than two years, Howe has transformed Newcastle into a formidable side that is capable of challenging for European places, with an emphasis on tactical organization, team unity, and defensive solidity.
Howe guided Newcastle to a top-four finish in the 2022/23 season, securing Champions League qualification for the first time in two decades. Newcastle’s recent success under Howe has also seen the emergence of key players like Bruno Guimarães, Kieran Trippier, and Alexander Isak, who have all thrived under his management.
However, despite these achievements, there are rumors that doubts may be growing within the Newcastle hierarchy regarding Howe’s long-term future.
Manchester United’s Interest
Erik ten Hag’s leadership at present, are always on the lookout for potential keeping a close eye on developments. Themanagerial candidates should a change be required in the future. Howe’s tactical acumen, ability to develop players, and track record of success with limited resources have made him a standout figure in the Premier League, and it is not surprising that he has attracted interest from one of England’s biggest clubs.
United’s admiration for Howe reportedly stems from his pragmatic yet progressive approach to football. He has earned a reputation for building teams that are hard to break down defensively while also promoting an attacking philosophy. His work at Bournemouth, where he kept the club in the Premier League for several years despite having one of the smallest budgets, showcased his ability to punch above his weight, and his achievements at Newcastle have further cemented his status as one of the league’s top managers.
Uncertainty Surrounding Howe’s Future
Despite leading the club into the Champions League, expectations at Newcastle have increased dramatically due to the significant investment from their Saudi owners. The pressure to deliver trophies and challenge the traditional “Big Six” on a consistent basis may be creating tensions between the management and the ownership group.
There is also speculation that Newcastle’s owners may be considering bringing in a high-profile manager with a proven track record of winning major silverware. Howe, for all his successes, has yet to win a major trophy in his managerial career, and this could be a sticking point for a club that is now aiming to compete at the highest level.
For Howe, the challenge of competing in multiple competitions, including the Champions League, with a relatively small squad depth compared to some of their rivals, could also be a significant factor. Newcastle’s performances in the early stages of the 2023/24 season have been somewhat inconsistent, leading to whispers of discontent among certain sections of the fanbase.
Also Read:
