folklore
Table of Contents
Eddie Howe’s journey to becoming a part of Newcastle folklore is a story of resilience, transformation, and unity. When he was appointed as manager of Newcastle United in November 2021, the club was in turmoil. The Magpies were languishing at the bottom of the Premier League, facing relegation, and the club’s future was uncertain following a tumultuous period under previous ownership. Howe’s arrival marked the beginning of a new era for the club, one that would come to define his legacy in the hearts of Newcastle fans and earn him a permanent place in the city’s folklore.
The Struggles Before Howe
Newcastle United’s recent history had been marked by financial uncertainty, managerial instability, and a lack of ambition under the stewardship of Mike Ashley. While the club had experienced brief moments of success, such as in the 2011-12 season when they finished fifth in the Premier League, they were often battling against relegation. Under Steve Bruce, the club had become stagnant and disjointed, with the fans growing increasingly frustrated with what they perceived as underachievement and lack of direction.
By the time Howe arrived, the team was rooted in the relegation zone, and despite a solid squad, their performances were erratic. The fans, long known for their passionate support, had become disillusioned with the club’s direction. The future seemed bleak, and many had already resigned themselves to the possibility of relegation to the Championship.
The Appointment of Eddie Howe
When the club’s Saudi-backed consortium took over in October 2021, there was a renewed sense of hope. The new owners promised to make significant changes, not only in terms of the financial investment but also in the managerial structure. With several high-profile managers linked to the job, it was Eddie Howe who was appointed, a decision that initially raised eyebrows.
Howe had earned a reputation as a talented young manager after his time at Bournemouth, where he guided the club from League Two to the Premier League. However, his time at the Cherries ended in disappointment, as they were relegated from the top flight in 2020. Yet, Howe’s credentials as a progressive and forward-thinking coach were well-established, and his philosophy of playing attractive, attacking football aligned with the ambitions of the new owners.
From the moment he arrived on Tyneside, Howe set about his task with quiet determination and clarity of vision. He inherited a team low on confidence and severely lacking in identity. His first challenge was not just to improve the tactical aspects of the team but to restore belief in the players and the supporters.
The Immediate Impact
Howe’s immediate influence was palpable. Despite not being able to make significant changes to the squad during the January transfer window of 2022, he managed to steady the ship. His first few months in charge were a testament to his tactical acumen and ability to get the best out of players. While the team wasn’t immediately transformed into world-beaters, the performances were undeniably improved.
Under Howe, the team displayed a newfound energy and cohesion. The defense, which had been porous and frail, became more solid, and the midfield started to gain control of games. Most importantly, the team began to fight for each other, something that had been missing for years. Players like Joelinton, previously seen as a £40 million flop, began to flourish in new roles, while others like Kieran Trippier and Bruno Guimarães arrived in January to give the squad a boost.
Howe’s ability to work with what he had in the early stages demonstrated his managerial prowess. It was clear that the team was playing with more intensity, and fans were starting to believe in the possibility of survival. The highlight of this period came when Newcastle secured crucial victories, including a dramatic 1-0 win over Leeds United at St. James’ Park, a result that helped lift them out of the relegation zone.
By the end of the 2021-22 season, Howe had completed what many saw as an incredible escape from relegation, finishing comfortably in mid-table. The achievement was more than just survival; it was a testament to Howe’s ability to quickly turn a struggling team into a competitive one. His calm demeanor, tactical flexibility, and ability to adapt to the situation endeared him to the supporters.
The Building of a New Dynasty
With survival secured, the real work for Howe began in the summer of 2022. The club’s new owners were determined to turn Newcastle United into a force in English football, and with significant financial backing, the club began to make key signings. Howe’s careful and strategic approach to recruitment was evident as he brought in players who not only possessed talent but also fit into the team’s work ethic and culture.
The 2022-23 season saw the team take a significant step forward, as Newcastle established itself as one of the most solid defensive teams in the league. The arrival of Alexander Isak, in particular, provided the attacking edge that the team had been missing, while the continued development of players like Bruno Guimarães and Joe Willock gave the squad depth and quality.
Newcastle’s style of play under Howe became one of intensity, high pressing, and fast transitions. The team was difficult to break down, and their performances were characterized by an unrelenting work ethic. The fans, who had grown accustomed to seeing teams languish in mediocrity, were now watching a team that believed it could achieve great things.
Perhaps the crowning achievement of Howe’s managerial reign to date came in the form of qualification for the UEFA Champions League in the 2023-24 season. The achievement marked a return to Europe’s top competition for the first time in 20 years, and it was a clear sign that Howe’s vision was coming to fruition. It was also a moment of redemption for the club, which had long been starved of success on the European stage.
Legacy and the Future
Eddie Howe’s legacy at Newcastle United is still in the process of being written, but it is already clear that he has earned a permanent place in the club’s folklore. He is not just the manager who led the team to safety or guided them to Champions League football, but the figure who has restored hope, pride, and belief to a fanbase that had long been disillusioned.
Howe has become a symbol of transformation. His ability to develop players, his tactical flexibility, and his humility have made him a beloved figure in Newcastle. Fans no longer view the team as one destined for mediocrity; under Howe’s leadership, Newcastle has the potential to compete with the top clubs in the Premier League and beyond.
In the years to come, as Newcastle United continues to build on its newfound success, Eddie Howe’s name will be remembered with reverence. He is not just a manager; he is the architect of a new era in the club’s storied history. Whether he guides the team to further triumphs or simply lays the foundations for future success, his place in Newcastle folklore is secure.
