Eddie Howe is expected to take a break from football altogether, in a similar way to Jurgen Klopp after his Liverpool exit in 2024

Eddie Howe has stepped down from Newcastle United, and Football Insider reports the manager is now considering a prolonged absence from football,  a path taken by Jurgen Klopp after his Liverpool exit in 2024. Howe’s departure follows a summer of key player exits and failure to land top targets.

Newcastle United have had another disappointing summer window, and while things could change between now and the transfer deadline, key exits and Eddie Howe stepping down could have damaging consequences.

The manager’s unhappiness with certain behind-the-scenes matters, specifically player departures, appears to have prompted his decision. With Arsenal heavily linked to Bruno Guimaraes and other stars already leaving, a combination of departures and failure to land top targets led to Howe’s exit.

Eddie Howe to take a break from football?

Football managers often step back from the game after leaving a long-term project. Pep Guardiola took a break after Barcelona; Jurgen Klopp departed Liverpool and spent two years away before taking the Germany national team role. Howe, who progressed from Bournemouth to Newcastle with minimal gap between spells, may now follow a similar pattern, stepping away to assess his future before a potential return.

Eddie Howe stepped down from his role at Newcastle United recently, amid speculation about his unhappiness with certain elements behind the scenes, specifically regarding player departures. With Arsenal heavily linked to Bruno Guimaraes, and some other stars already leaving, a combination of departures and failure to land top targets led to the manager’s departure.

Newcastle United are already closing in on Al-Ahli manager Matthias Jaissle as Howe’s replacement, with the German expected to join the club’s training camp in La Manga, Spain.

Eddie Howe’s Newcastle legacy

Howe took over Newcastle United immediately after their Saudi-backed takeover, tasked with keeping the club in the top flight. At the time, the Magpies were favourites for relegation, but he stabilised the squad through stellar results and quality signings.

Over his tenure, he guided Newcastle into the Champions League twice and ended a 70-year wait for a major trophy when the club lifted the Carabao Cup in 2025. While there are indications that he leaves behind a weaker squad than the one he inherited, Howe will be remembered as one of Newcastle United’s best managers in recent years.