Eddie Howe says he gave his “life, heart and soul” to Newcastle in the head coach’s first statement since leaving the Magpies after nearly five years in charge on Thursday.

Englishman Howe’s departure, which came a day after a 4-1 friendly defeat to Championship club Bristol City, has been part of a turbulent summer for the club featuring the sales of England winger Anthony Gordon and Italy playmaker Sandro Tonali, with Brazil midfielder Bruno Guimaraes also thought to be closing in on a move to Arsenal.

“Although it’s been incredibly difficult to make this decision, I know, in my heart, that it’s the right one,” said Howe.

“I have always put the best interests of Newcastle before my own in every single decision I have made while I’ve been here and this one is no different.

“It has been the privilege of my lifetime to have been the manager of Newcastle United.”

Eddie Howe: Full statement on Newcastle exit

“After a period of personal reflection, I have decided that now is the right time for me to step away from my role as head coach of Newcastle United,” Howe said in a statement on Newcastle’s website.

“After nearly five years of giving my life, heart and soul into the club with unrelenting energy, I feel it is in the best interests of both myself and the club to step away, recharge and take a break.

“Although it’s been incredibly difficult to make this decision, I know in my heart that it’s the right one.

“I have always put the best interests of Newcastle before my own in every single decision I have made while I’ve been here and this one is no different.

“It has been the privilege of my lifetime to have been the manager of Newcastle United.

“It is difficult to put into words what this club, the city and its supporters mean – and will always mean – to me and my family.

“From the moment myself, Jason and all of the staff arrived nearly half a decade ago, Newcastle instantly felt like home and the people here welcomed us with open arms.

“We took huge pride in representing the club from day one and this city will always hold a very special place in our hearts.

“There have been so many incredible moments in our time here. From fighting relegation in our first season to the numerous unforgettable nights at St James’ Park in the Champions League soon after. The progression was fast.

“Everyone came together, united and what a force we became, culminating in bringing home our first domestic trophy [the 2024/25 EFL Cup] in 70 years.

“These are all memories that I will cherish for the rest of my life. I would like to put on record my sincere thanks and appreciation to [hierarchy] Yasir Al-Rumayyan, Jamie Reuben, Jacobo Solis and everyone at [owners the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund], [executives] David Hopkinson [and Ross Wilson and the entire ownership and leadership group for placing their trust in me and for giving me the opportunity to lead this special football club.

“I remain incredibly positive and enthusiastic about the future of Newcastle. The club is in fantastic hands with a great leadership team and I have no doubt together, alongside whoever comes in to replace me, they will continue to deliver success on the pitch.

“Thank you to [backroom staff] Jason Tindall, Graeme Jones, Stephen Purches, Simon Weatherstone, Dan Hodges, Andy Howe and Jordan Tribe for their incredible loyalty, support and dedication and to all of the amazing staff behind the scenes whose hard work and loyalty makes this club what it is.

“A special thank you to all of the players who have represented the club during my time here. Without you, nothing would have been possible and it’s been an honour to have coached you all.

“Finally, and most importantly, thank you to our incredible supporters. Your passion and loyalty have inspired me every single day.

“To stand on the touchline at St James’ Park as your manager with the honour of representing your club has meant more to me than you will ever know.

“While my journey as manager has now come to an end, the affinity and love I will always hold for Newcastle United never will.

“Thank you for everything. I wish the club every success for the future.”

Eddie Howe: What have Newcastle said about manager?

The club said Howe’s arrival at St. James’ Park came at a “pivotal moment” in November 2021, having been appointed shortly after the fund took over.

Newcastle noted that Howe steered them to the Champions League in 2023 and 2025 and reached the knockout phase for the first time in the club’s history last season, going out to Barcelona in the last 16.

“Along the way, Eddie helped deliver some of the most memorable moments in Newcastle United’s recent history,” they said.

“His passion, dedication and connection with the city, the club and its fans have been strong throughout his time in the north-east and he has helped to establish foundations that have positioned the club strongly for the future.”

Chief executive Hopkinson said Newcastle were “naturally disappointed” by Howe’s decision.

“Eddie and his staff leave with the deep gratitude and respect of everyone… and with a lasting place in the club’s history,” added Hopkinson.

“We remain immensely thankful for everything he has done for the club. On behalf of our owners, board, players, staff and supporters, I would like to extend sincere thanks to Eddie for his outstanding service and leadership and wish him and his family every success and happiness for the future.”

Wilson echoed Hopkinson’s tribute. Newcastle said the process to replace Howe is “at an advanced stage”, with Matthias Jassle expected to be appointed.