Credit: Imago

Evan Lloyd

Thu 19 March 2026 9:45, UK

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Eddie Howe’s odds of being the next Premier League manager to be sacked have been shortened in light of Newcastle United’s embarrassing defeat to Barcelona.

The Magpies were smashed 7-2 at Camp Nou on Wednesday, bringing an end to their Champions League campaign with a whimper.

Anthony Elanga’s brace saw Newcastle go into the break trailing by just one goal, after Lamine Yamal had scored from the spot in the final moments of the first half.

But goals from Fermin Lopez, Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha completed a rout for the La Liga champions in the second half.

Newcastle’s manager has been the topic of conversation on several occasions this season, with his side struggling to adapt to what was a tumultuous summer.

Eddie Howe betting odds slashed

Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown exclusively told Football Insider this month that Newcastle are asking questions of Howe, with frustration beginning to build around the 48-year-old.

The Englishman was appointed in 2021 and has led the Magpies to reach various heights since their takeover.

Last season marked the second time they qualified for the Champions League, and it also brought a first trophy since 1969 when they beat Liverpool in the Carabao Cup final.

Yet such a positive season has been followed up by a campaign that looks as if it will finish with Newcastle finishing mid-table and trophy-less.

Of course, there has been much to contend with for Howe, who lost star striker Alexander Isak in the summer and has struggled to replace the 27 goals he scored across all competitions last season.

But patience is a luxury, and after Wednesday’s hugely embarrassing performance, it is beginning to run out.

One major bookmaker has slashed Howe’s odds of being the next Premier League manager to face the sack to 10/1, while Oliver Glasner (6/4), Arne Slot (3/1) and Scott Parker (3/1) continue to lead the race.

The stats behind Newcastle United’s staggering defeat

Bizarrely, Howe appeared to set Newcastle up with a high line against Barcelona, despite the collection of attacking talent at the hands of the Spanish side.

Of course, once behind, the Magpies had to get forward and give it a go, but it was a surprise to see Lopez afforded acres of space to run through on goal when just one goal separated the sides.

Much of the domination came after that, and it does not make for attractive reading from Howe’s perspective.

Barcelona enjoyed 4.29 expected goals and a staggering 10 big chances from 18 shots taken on Aaron Ramsdale’s goal.

Ultimately, Newcastle can be somewhat glad that it was not worse, although that will not be much of a consolation.