Newcastle United finished fourth last season, qualifying for the Champions League for the first time since 2003. However, they have struggled this season and currently sit in sixth place. Eddie Howe, the team’s coach, admitted that the pressure of being dubbed ‘the richest club in the world’ after Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund took over in 2021 has affected the team. Despite not living up to the “richest club” tag, Howe says the players have handled the pressure well but acknowledges the difficulties it has brought. He believes that if the owner wants to invest in a safe way for the club’s growth, then it should be allowed.
Howe, who previously managed Bournemouth, a club that had to invest to grow, is not against cash-rich clubs spending money, given his own history. He thinks that as long as the owner has the funds and wants to invest safely, there should be no problem with spending the money. Last season’s fourth-place finish was a surprise for Newcastle, as their primary goal was to avoid relegation and improve gradually. Howe says that hitting fourth place felt like a rapid climb and raised questions about the team’s future. Despite the inconsistency this season, Howe aims to maintain their current position and sees it as a successful season if they achieve that.
Newcastle started this season with high expectations after finishing fourth last year, but they have faced challenges and have struggled to reproduce last season’s success. Howe believes that the pressure of being dubbed ‘the richest club in the world’ has affected the team, even though they are not living up to that reality. The tag has brought external pressure, leading to challenges for the players. However, Howe commends the players for handling the pressure well.
The team’s consistency has been up and down this season, with a particularly challenging December. Howe acknowledges the difficulties but believes they have managed to weather the tough times. He is proud of the team’s performance and aims to maintain their current position for a successful season. Despite the challenges, Newcastle has shown ambition and a desire to improve, even if they don’t necessarily improve their league position. Howe’s experience with Bournemouth has shaped his views on club investments and growth.
Newcastle’s upcoming fixtures against Brighton, Manchester United, and Brentford are crucial in determining their final position this season. Howe aims to finish the season strongly and maintain their current position despite the challenges faced. He values consistency and believes that the team has done well in handling the ups and downs of the season. Maintaining their position would be a significant achievement for Newcastle, considering the difficulties they have faced this season. Howe remains optimistic about the team’s performance and is focused on finishing the season on a positive note.
In conclusion, Eddie Howe’s time at Newcastle has been marked by challenges and pressure due to the club’s new ownership and the expectations that come with it. Despite the difficulties faced, Howe remains optimistic about the team’s future and is focused on finishing the season well. Newcastle’s journey this season has been a mix of highs and lows, and Howe’s experience and leadership will play a crucial role in guiding the team to a successful finish. The pressure of being a top club in terms of financial backing has not deterred Howe and his players from aiming for success and growth.
