Newcastle decide Eddie Howe’s fate after Carabao Cup exit

February 6, 2026 Oliver Obel

Newcastle United have moved to underline their long-term commitment to Eddie Howe following their Carabao Cup exit, signalling that the club’s leadership remains focused on continuity rather than short-term reaction.

Chief executive David Hopkinson addressed growing speculation around Howe’s future after Wednesday night’s defeat to Manchester City, firmly rejecting suggestions that the club is reconsidering its managerial direction.

Speaking on talkSPORT, Hopkinson dismissed criticism aired by pundit Simon Jordan and reiterated the club’s backing for the 48-year-old.

“Eddie's our manager and he's an extraordinary manager,” Hopkinson said. “With all due respect to Simon, I could not disagree more. Eddie's our man and he has our total support here.”

Cup exit adds to scrutiny

Newcastle’s Carabao Cup campaign ended at the Etihad Stadium after a difficult second leg against Manchester City. Already trailing 2–0 from the semi-final first leg and missing key midfielders, the Magpies faced an uphill task from the outset.

City took control early, scoring three times inside the opening 33 minutes. Omar Marmoush struck twice, with Tijjani Reijnders also on the scoresheet, effectively ending the contest before half-time.

Newcastle showed more urgency after the break and Anthony Elanga scored after coming off the bench, but the tie finished 5–1 on aggregate. City will now meet Arsenal in the final at Wembley on Sunday 22 March.

League form and broader context

The cup defeat has sharpened focus on Newcastle’s wider season. The club currently sits 11th in the Premier League, seven points behind Chelsea in fifth and seven clear of the relegation zone, a position reflecting inconsistency rather than sustained decline.

European ambitions remain alive, with Newcastle having reached the Champions League play-offs. However, recruitment following the club’s record sale of Alexander Isak has drawn scrutiny, particularly as financial considerations continue to shape squad development.

Within the club, there is a belief that maintaining stability through this phase is essential to sustaining long-term progress.

No sign of distraction

Howe has also been linked with the England managerial role, with Thomas Tuchel’s contract due to expire after the World Cup in North America. Hopkinson played down any suggestion that such speculation has affected Howe’s focus.

“Eddie consistently indicates to us how happy he is here,” he said. “I see someone very leaned in and very focused.”

Hopkinson also praised Howe’s work ethic and commitment, describing a strong working relationship built on trust and shared objectives.

Since taking charge in 2021, Howe has guided Newcastle to Premier League safety, returned the club to the Champions League on two occasions and delivered a first major trophy in 56 years — achievements that continue to underpin the club’s confidence in his leadership.

Sources: talkSPORT