'I used to own Newcastle United and I'm astounded by Eddie Howe's exit'

Eddie Howe's departure from Newcastle United has come completely out of the blue ahead of the 2026-27 campaign.

The 48-year-old has been under an immense amount of pressure, but very few at St James' Park actually expected his exit this summer.

Full focus has been on the transfer window, with Anthony Gordon, Sandro Tonali and Kieran Trippier all leaving, and Bruno Guimaraes likely next.

Despite bringing in four new signings, all of whom are 20 years old or younger, supporters have been left scratching their heads at developments in the north east.

David Ornstein has reported that Howe is set to take a break from football following five years with the Magpies, despite all parties agreeing to continue initially.

Newcastle's 4-1 pre-season defeat to Bristol City appears to be the turning point for the former Bournemouth boss, but the news has taken even the highest of sources.

Former Newcastle United owner 'astounded' by Eddie Howe exit

Newcastle's owners are now scrambling for a replacement, with Al Ahli's Matthias Jassle being lined up as the replacement ahead of 2026-27.

It is former club owner Sir John Hall who has been stunned by the news, telling talkSPORT Jim White that he's "astounded" by the breaking story.

Hall sold his shares at St James' Park to Mike Ashley in May 2007, but clearly still holds the club close to his heart, keeping a close eye on all developments.

It is certainly a news story that will send shockwaves throughout the Premier League, and one with more updates to come in the north east.

Players who could suffer after Howe's exit

Not everybody at St James' Park will be celebrating the news, though a growing number of fans are happy to see the back of the head coach.

Jacob Murphy is unlikely to be a fan of the update. Despite links with a move away and many not believing he's good enough, the winger was captain against Bristol City.

A new manager won't have the same love for the 31-year-old, and the same could be said for Joelinton, who is not everyone's cup of tea.

Either Nick Woltemade or Yoane Wissa could suffer as well, given that Jaissle prefers playing with a lone striker, and the latter not good enough to play on the wing instead.