Newcastle United head coach Eddie Howe has played down links to the vacant Manchester United job, insisting he remains “very happy” at St James’ Park following the dismissal of Ruben Amorim on Monday.
Since taking charge in November 2021, Howe has become one of the longest-serving managers in the Premier League, with only Pep Guardiola at Manchester City, Mikel Arteta at Arsenal and Fulham’s Marco Silva having spent more time in their current roles.
When asked whether the opportunity to succeed Amorim at Old Trafford could tempt him away from Newcastle, Howe was emphatic in his response. “No. Not at this current time,” he said.
“For me, the most important thing is happiness in the role – enjoyment of the job and the relationships I have with the people around me. That hasn’t always been consistent in my career. Things can change quickly at any football club, but right now I’m very happy.”
Howe’s position at Newcastle has not been without challenges. Tensions emerged last season between the head coach and former sporting director Paul Mitchell, who departed the club last summer after less than a year in the role. However, Howe has since developed a strong working relationship with Mitchell’s successor, Ross Wilson.
Wilson is the third sporting director Howe has worked under at Newcastle, while David Hopkinson is the club’s second chief executive since Darren Eales stepped down due to ill health. Despite those changes behind the scenes, Howe says stability in his own role has been key.
“As long as I can express myself in the best way possible and be the best version of myself, I’m content,” he added.
On the pitch, Newcastle remain well placed across multiple competitions. They sit ninth in the Premier League, just two points adrift of fifth place, have reached the semi-finals of the Carabao Cup, and are on course to secure a Champions League last-16 play-off spot.
Howe also continues to enjoy the support of the club’s ownership, led by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, alongside minority shareholder Jamie Reuben.
“For any club to be successful, there has to be unity from top to bottom,” Howe said. “There has to be a strong connection and a positive feeling throughout the club.
“I’ve had an unbelievable relationship with the board, and that’s never changed. I feel very fortunate to have had the time to build those relationships, because that’s something many managers don’t get.
“Mutual trust and confidence are hugely important. Hopefully, that continues for a long time.”
