How long will Newcastle’s faith in Eddie Howe last?

November 12, 2025 Oliver Obel

Sunday’s defeat at the Gtech Community Stadium was among Newcastle’s most concerning performances of the campaign. According to official Premier League data, the result left them 14th in the table with 12 points from 11 matches — only two clear of the drop zone.

It marks a sharp contrast to the highs of earlier in 2025, when Howe guided Newcastle to their first major trophy since 1955, lifting the EFL Cup after a 2–1 win over Liverpool. Despite that achievement, frustration has been mounting among sections of the fanbase who fear the club’s momentum has stalled.

Board reaffirms confidence

According to The i Paper, Newcastle’s hierarchy remains firmly behind Howe despite recent struggles. The outlet reports that the manager retains strong backing from chief executive David Hopkinson and the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund, which owns the club.

That confidence stems from Howe’s track record and his influence on the club’s long-term project. He has also been involved in talks over appointing a new director of football — a sign that the board continues to view him as central to Newcastle’s football structure.

Club officials are said to be satisfied with the team’s progress in other competitions. Newcastle have reached the Carabao Cup quarter-finals and have impressed in the Champions League, performing credibly against some of Europe’s strongest sides.

Senior players take responsibility

Within the dressing room, senior players have stepped forward to ease pressure on their manager. Defender Kieran Trippier told Chronicle Live that the team’s leadership group — which includes Jamaal Lascelles, Bruno Guimarães, Dan Burn and Nick Pope — held honest discussions after the Brentford defeat.

“I wouldn’t say any arguments or anything,” Trippier explained. “We’ve got a lot of experienced players in the dressing room; we’ve all discussed it. The leadership group, as a team — the manager has fully put a stamp on it — but all we can do as players, it’s not the manager’s, it’s the players who need to step up away from home.”

He acknowledged the contrast between Newcastle’s home and away form: “There’s no excuses because the record at home is top; away it’s not. But as players, we need to take responsibility, which we will do. All I can say is that the lads are giving everything.”

Howe safe for now

With the board reaffirming their support and senior players publicly backing their manager, Eddie Howe’s position appears secure — for now. However, the pressure will persist until Newcastle rediscover consistency and climb back into the Premier League’s top half.

As one source close to the club noted, “The ambition hasn’t changed — but results need to follow soon.”

Sources: The i Paper, Chronicle Live, Official Premier League statistics