‘I’m not performing my role adequately’ – Is Howe facing mounting pressure?

A Heavy Defeat for Newcastle

The atmosphere at St James’ Park was charged with anticipation as Newcastle United’s captain, Bruno Guimaraes, converted a penalty to equalize at 2-2 against Brentford. However, hopes quickly turned to despair as Dango Ouattara struck back, securing a stunning 3-2 victory for Brentford, leaving the home fans in shock.

In a dramatic conclusion, one frustrated supporter even approached the dugout, urging head coach Eddie Howe to “sort it out,” while boos echoed through the stadium as the final whistle blew. As Newcastle find themselves in 12th place in the Premier League, Eddie Howe appeared visibly disheartened.

Is Pressure Mounting on Howe?

“I always feel scrutiny,” Howe commented. With only one win across the last eight matches in all competitions, he acknowledged the heavy burden that comes with his position.

“The aspect of pressure doesn’t concern me,” he explained. “In this role, you always deal with the expectation to win or to reverse poor performances. Right now, we are certainly in that phase. I place immense pressure on myself as I strive for high standards in my work and what I expect from the players. Clearly, I am not fulfilling my responsibilities optimally at the moment.”

‘I Will Not Point Fingers at the Manager’

Howe has faced difficult periods before, including when he took over at a club struggling to avoid relegation in 2021, managing to secure only one victory from his first ten matches. Among those matches was a disheartening FA Cup defeat to Cambridge United on a day Kieran Trippier made his debut.

Trippier, reflecting on the team’s performance against Brentford, accepted personal accountability for the defensive errors leading to the three goals. “This is not about the manager,” he told Sky Sports. “We are responsible for our performances. The manager lays out the plan, and it’s up to us to follow through, but I will not start blaming him.”

Nevertheless, the ongoing challenges in Howe’s tenure—both on and off the pitch—can be traced back to a tumultuous summer.

Recruitment Challenges This Season

Newcastle operated without a sporting director during the recent transfer window and missed out on several main targets, which included notable names like Hugo Ekitike and Joao Pedro. Adding to their troubles, top scorer Alexander Isak attempted to force through a move to Liverpool.

Howe played a critical role in recruitment decisions, and despite spending over £250 million on players like Jacob Ramsey, Anthony Elanga, and Yoane Wissa, only two of the signings saw starting positions during the recent match against Brentford. Wissa in particular faced a tough reception from fans after being substituted, who chanted “what a waste of money,” having only scored three goals since joining Newcastle last December.

A Call for Improvement

Alan Shearer, Newcastle’s all-time leading goalscorer, acknowledges the current challenges but maintains that Howe is “not under pressure.” He remarked, “The summer signings, barring Malick Thiaw, have not met expectations, and their underperformance has adversely affected Howe’s position.”

Shearer continued, “Every manager faces the need for improvement and must turn the situation around, but in terms of Howe facing dismissal? That’s not on the table.”

Howe Needs to Ignite a Comeback

Eddie Howe’s track record should instill confidence. He ended Newcastle’s long wait for a major domestic trophy and led them to Champions League qualification within the last two years. This success has earned him respect from the newly appointed chief executive and sporting director.

However, with Newcastle trying to adapt after a disruptive summer, the pressure mounts as they prepare for significant matches ahead, including a Champions League round and an FA Cup clash against Aston Villa.

Statistics reveal Newcastle has dropped 19 points from winning positions this season, and they’ve experienced three recent home losses—now situated perilously close to the relegation zone. Howe is acutely aware of the need for swift improvements, stating, “I must enhance my performance, take full responsibility for what transpires on the pitch, and collaborate with the players to identify solutions.”