adminEddie Howe made some shocking admition in his final interview as Newcastle United manager before bringing his five-year spell at the club to an end.
The Englishman took charge of the Magpies when they were in the relegation zone and transformed them into a Champions League side, while also ending the club’s long wait for major silverware.
However, those successful days appear to be fading. Newcastle’s decline has been marked by the departures of several key players, beginning with Alexander Isak’s exit last summer, which triggered a series of events that ultimately led to Howe leaving the club.
A disappointing transfer window contributed to Newcastle finishing 12th last season. Since then, Anthony Gordon and Sandro Tonali have departed, while Bruno Guimaraes has made it clear he wants to join Arsenal. Howe acknowledged that further changes could still happen.
He said:
> “There’s been a lot of upheaval at the football club with potentially more to come. I think there’s always reasons to be optimistic and that’s very much my default setting. I believe great things are possible every season with a real buzz of what’s ahead. I see no reasons to be any different this year.”
His comments came after Newcastle’s 4-1 pre-season defeat to Championship side Bristol City, a result that was far from ideal preparation for the new Premier League campaign.
Despite earning widespread praise for his work at St James’ Park, Howe has watched several of his best players leave over the past year. Bruno Guimaraes, who had yet to return to the squad, is the latest player linked with a move away, and Howe admitted he could not guarantee the Brazilian would stay.
Speaking to the Chronicle, Howe said:
> “We’ve spoken numerous times. Assurances? I don’t think you can push too hard for those. I’ve said many times we want players who are committed, and Bruno has always been committed.
> “His training performances and his game performances have been outstanding every time he’s worn the shirt. He’s played with the fans by his side. I’d love to see that continue.”
He added:
> “What will be, will be. We can’t control the forces that are at play here.”
Those comments proved to be among Howe’s final as Newcastle manager, with the 48-year-old stepping down from his role.
Less than 24 hours before his departure, he said:
> “Every day as Newcastle manager is a great day for me. I absolutely love the football club and that will never change.”
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