Newcastle United is reportedly set to appoint Matthias Jaissle, currently the coach of Al-Ahli, as the replacement for Eddie Howe ahead of the upcoming Premier League season.
Newcastle United is on the verge of appointing Matthias Jaissle as their new head coach following the departure of Eddie Howe. The 38-year-old German manager is expected to take the helm just weeks before the commencement of the 2026-27 Premier League season. Although Jaissle may not be a household name among English football fans, he has achieved significant success in both Austria and Saudi Arabia, establishing himself as one of the most promising young coaches in the sport.
Matthias Jaissle, born on August 5, 1985, is a German football manager and former professional player who currently manages Al-Ahli in the Saudi Pro League. During his tenure at the club, he has secured two AFC Champions League titles and the Saudi Super Cup, earning recognition as one of Asia’s most successful young managers.
Before his time in Saudi Arabia, Jaissle managed Austrian powerhouse Red Bull Salzburg. Under his leadership, the club clinched back-to-back Austrian Bundesliga titles and an Austrian Cup, while also advancing to the knockout stages of the UEFA Champions League.
Jaissle’s coaching journey began rapidly. He initially worked with Red Bull Salzburg’s Under-18 team before taking charge of FC Liefering in Austria’s second division. His successful stint at Liefering, where he led the team to a second-place finish, earned him a promotion to Salzburg’s first team, where he continued the club’s winning legacy.
Unlike many of his contemporaries, Jaissle’s playing career was relatively brief. He played as a centre-back for Hoffenheim but made only 68 league appearances. A serious ACL injury forced him to retire from professional football at the young age of 26. He also represented Germany once at the Under-21 international level before fully committing to coaching.
Jaissle is known for his attacking and high-pressing style of football. His teams focus on regaining possession quickly and transitioning forward with speed, making them an exciting watch. His coaching philosophy is heavily influenced by the Red Bull football system, with former Manchester United interim manager Ralf Rangnick being one of his key inspirations. Jaissle emphasizes applying immediate pressure on opponents and attacking vertically once possession is secured.
Newcastle’s decision to pursue Jaissle is likely influenced by his impressive accomplishments at such a young age. He has garnered domestic league titles, cup victories, and continental trophies throughout his coaching career, building a reputation as one of football’s brightest young managers. Additionally, his familiarity with Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF)—which holds a majority stake in both Al-Ahli and Newcastle United—may have played a role in the club’s choice.
If appointed, Jaissle will make history as Newcastle’s first-ever German manager and only the club’s third head coach not from Britain or Ireland. With the new Premier League season rapidly approaching, Jaissle will have limited time to acclimate before leading Newcastle into their opening fixtures, including a challenging match against Liverpool.
As Newcastle United prepares for this pivotal transition, the appointment of Matthias Jaissle could signal a new era for the club, blending youthful ambition with a proven track record of success.
According to The Sunday Guardian, the club is optimistic about Jaissle’s potential to lead them into a successful future.