Abdulhafiz TeslimIt’s hard to believe that just a week ago, Newcastle United were returning from a pre-season friendly at Bristol City under Eddie Howe. Seven days later, the club has entered a new era with Matthias Jaissle officially appointed as head coach.
The 38-year-old German has completed his move from Al-Ahli and will take charge of his first match when Newcastle face Valencia on Saturday. That game begins a demanding schedule, with friendlies against Everton, Bayer Leverkusen and Strasbourg before the Premier League opener against Liverpool.
As Jaissle prepares for life at St. James’ Park, several major issues demand his immediate attention.
Finding Bruno Guimarães’ replacement
The biggest challenge is replacing Bruno Guimarães following his £75 million move to Arsenal. The Brazilian was the heartbeat of Newcastle’s midfield, and his departure leaves a significant void.
Sean Steur has impressed during pre-season, but Newcastle are still expected to sign an experienced midfielder. Financial constraints mean the club are unlikely to spend the entire transfer fee on one player.
Luka Sušić, who previously worked with Jaissle at RB Salzburg, has been strongly linked, while Stuttgart midfielder Angelo Stiller is another player reportedly admired by the club. Borussia Dortmund’s Felix Nmecha and Porto’s Victor Froholdt have also been mentioned, although both could prove difficult to sign.
Choosing a new captain
Guimarães’ departure also leaves Newcastle without a permanent captain.
Dan Burn appears to be the leading candidate thanks to his experience and leadership, although questions remain over whether he will be a guaranteed starter throughout the season.
Other options include Sven Botman, Malick Thiaw, Lewis Hall, Jacob Murphy and highly-rated youngster Lewis Miley. Jaissle’s decision will play a major role in shaping the team’s identity moving forward.
Rebuilding the leadership group
The leadership group also requires fresh faces following the departures of Guimarães, Sandro Tonali and Kieran Trippier, while Nick Pope and Jacob Murphy continue to be linked with possible exits.
Harvey Barnes has already spoken about embracing greater responsibility, while Botman and Thiaw are expected to become influential figures. Any new signings could also be integrated into the club’s leadership structure.
Managing possible departures
Although Newcastle have already lost several key players this summer, more exits cannot be ruled out.
Nick Pope’s future remains uncertain following the arrival of Lukas Hornicek, while Joe Willock and Jacob Murphy have also attracted transfer interest. Should further departures happen, Newcastle will likely need additional reinforcements before the transfer window closes.
Implementing his vision
Jaissle has already begun working with the squad despite waiting for the final confirmation of his appointment.
One of his first priorities is to establish a clear playing style, communicate his expectations and convince the squad to buy into his long-term project. Maintaining morale after a summer of high-profile departures will be one of his biggest early tests.
Winning over the supporters
Replacing Eddie Howe is never going to be easy after everything he achieved at Newcastle.
Supporters are understandably cautious following the departures of several star players and the arrival of a number of young, relatively unproven talents. However, Jaissle will have the opportunity to earn the fans’ trust through his performances and style of football.
The remaining pre-season fixtures will provide the first indications of what Newcastle’s new era may look like, before the real challenge begins when Liverpool visit St. James’ Park for the Premier League opener.
Abdulhafiz Teslim
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