Everything is black or white for Newcastle United managers — you’re either a messiah or a bum. That’s how it has always been. However, the current Newcastle boss, Eddie Howe, seems to be stuck in a gray area. Once hailed as a hero, he is now facing criticism as the team’s performance declines.
Last Saturday, Newcastle suffered a 4-1 defeat against Arsenal, a team they had previously frustrated in recent meetings. This loss has placed them in danger of falling into the bottom half of the Premier League. Despite this setback, the loyal Newcastle fans remain supportive, singing Howe’s name throughout the match.
However, the reality is that Howe’s team has the sixth-worst defensive record in the league, and their home advantage seems to have faded away. With only one win in their last six home matches, St James’ Park is no longer the formidable fortress it once was.
Howe blames injuries for the team’s struggles, but Liverpool and Aston Villa have managed to thrive despite facing similar challenges. Additionally, Newcastle is on the verge of losing their sporting director, Dan Ashworth, to Manchester United. This is a blow to Newcastle, considering they were aiming to compete with the top clubs like Man United.
The club’s hopes were also dashed when they made a £55m signing in Sandro Tonali, without properly conducting their due diligence. It was later revealed that Tonali had a betting ban, exposing the club’s lack of caution in their transfer dealings.
While Ashworth’s departure is imminent, Howe has expressed concerns that he might take Newcastle’s state secrets to Old Trafford, Manchester United’s home ground. This admission from Howe suggests that all is not well behind the scenes at St James’ Park.
Given the circumstances, the FA Cup fifth round becomes crucial for Howe’s future at Newcastle. A triumph in this competition would secure his position and solidify his legend. However, the competition remains fierce, with teams like Manchester City and Liverpool still in the running.
Newcastle’s decline is disappointing considering their recent successes. Their appearance in the Carabao Cup final and qualification for the Champions League seemed like the start of a new era. But their Champions League campaign ended in disappointment, and a mid-table finish in the league seems likely unless they can lift the FA Cup.
It remains to be seen if the Saudi owners will tolerate mediocrity and a lack of silverware. The pressure is mounting on Howe to turn things around swiftly before the ruthlessness of his paymasters becomes evident.
F5 Magazine
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