Who is Matthias Jaissle? Favourite to replace Eddie Howe at Newcastle | Football | Sport
Matthias Jaissle could be Newcastle United’s next manager (Image: Getty)
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Everything you need to know about Matthias Jaissle as he’s linked with the Newcastle United job
- Howe’s departure: Eddie Howe has left Newcastle United and the Athletic reports that Al Ahli head coach Matthias Jaissle is lined up as his replacement. For the majority of UK football fans, the 38-year-old is an unknown entity.
- Playing career cut short: Jaissle played as a central defender in his native Germany for TSG Hoffenheim between 2007 and 2014. However, severe knee injuries forced him to retire from professional football at just 25 years old.
- Coaching roots: Following his retirement, he moved straight into coaching within the Red Bull setup, serving as an assistant at RB Leipzig and Denmark’s Brøndby. These early roles allowed him to master the high-pressing, transition-heavy tactical philosophy that defines his teams today.
- First head coaching role: In January 2021, he stepped into his first senior head coaching position at Austrian second-tier side FC Liefering. He made an immediate impact, guiding the team to an impressive second-place finish whilst earning praise for his youth development skills.
- Silverware and European history: Promoted to lead Red Bull Salzburg in July 2021, he won back-to-back Austrian Bundesliga titles and an Austrian Cup. Under his leadership, Salzburg also reached the UEFA Champions League knockout stages for the first time in the club’s history.
- High-profile move to Saudi Arabia: Jaissle moved to Saudi Pro League side Al Ahli in July 2023 on a three-year deal. Tasked with integrating a squad of star international signings, he quickly established a cohesive, organised tactical structure.
- Trophy success: His tenure in Saudi Arabia has been a resounding success, highlighted by winning back-to-back AFC Champions League Elite titles and a Saudi Super Cup. He also secured a top-three finish in the Saudi Pro League and St James’ Park could be his next port of call.
- READ MORE: Eddie Howe leaves Newcastle with immediate effect as ‘talks underway’ for replacement
