Mancini, Mourinho on Newcastle’s Radar as Pressure Builds on Howe

Eddie Howe future in doubt

Newcastle’s PIF ownership has big ambitions and missing Europe would be a major setback. No decision made on Howe, but talks could lead to a split.

Roberto Mancini on Newcastle’s radar as pressure grows on Eddie Howe...

Roberto Mancini and Jose Mourinho are on Newcastle United’s radar if the club parts ways with head coach Eddie Howe at the end of the season, sources say.

The Magpies sit 14th in the Premier League and fan frustration is building. Boos echoed around St James’ Park after their 2-1 loss to Bournemouth at the weekend.

The slump is a major concern. It follows a campaign where they played Champions League football and planned to do it again next season.

 

There are already reported concerns the squad could break up, with Anthony Gordon, Sandro Tonali and Tino Livramento among those tipped to leave this summer.

Now the focus has shifted to head coach Howe. Insiders said there is a very real possibility he could leave the club.

  

Newcastle, owned by Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund the Public Investment Fund, have big ambitions. Missing European football would be a significant setback to their push to join English football’s elite.

Eddie Howe on today's defeat at St. James' Park 🎙️ pic.twitter.com/PczRORNxle

— Newcastle United (@NUFC) April 18, 2026

 

No decision has been made on his future and relations remain good between all parties. But insiders believe conversations about Howe’s future could lead to a parting of ways at the end of the season.

If the managerial job opens up, sources believe Mourinho will be among the leading contenders. His profile and proven trophy-winning record align with the ownership group’s vision.

Newcastle are understood to have long-standing interest in former Premier League title-winning boss Mancini.

Read Also: Eddie Howe's Remarkable Job Amidst Newcastle's Challenges

 

 

Mancini, 61, currently manages Qatar-based Al-Sadd and has a profile and pedigree that appeal to Newcastle.

Other names, including current US men’s national team coach Mauricio Pochettino and Bournemouth’s Andoni Iraola, may also be considered if Howe leaves.

The club’s official stance is that they still believe in Eddie Howe. But this is a defining moment for Newcastle, who have five games left to salvage a disappointing season.

 

Overall, the expectation is that significant changes could be coming to Tyneside this summer.