It is hard not to feel that everything is falling apart at Newcastle United right now. Eddie Howe’s decision to quit in the middle of pre-season could prove to be a historic one. After all, he is the most successful manager in the club’s recent history, guiding them to their first major trophy after 70 years and multiple forays into European competitions as well.
Newcastle United look set to replace Howe with highly-rated German manager Matthias Jaissle. But that is not the end of the Magpies’ problems.
They have seen so many of their key players leave over the past twelve months. Alexander Isak joined Liverpool last summer. Sandro Tonali and Anthony Gordon have already left this time around.
Also, there is heavy speculation around the future of Bruno Guimaraes, who has agreed personal terms with Arsenal already. He is not the only one who has informed the club of his desire to leave though.
Newcastle United informed of player’s desire to leave
According to the Daily Mail, Joelinton told Newcastle United of his wish to move to Saudi Arabia in the weeks after the season closed. That offer is yet to materialise.
Of course, Joelinton is an important part of this team. His exit might not grab the same headlines as the one of Guimaraes would, but one cannot downplay his position at St James’ Park either.
Even last season, he was a consistent starter for Newcastle United. He started eight of their games in the Champions League, including both legs of the last 16 tie against FC Barcelona.
So, if Joelinton does end up leaving, it would be another blow for the Magpies. Not only would they be losing a starting-level player but the experience of the eight-time Brazilian international as well.
Where do Newcastle go from here?
Newcastle United simply cannot entertain the idea of losing so much experience in the same summer window. Gordon and Tonali have already left.
On top of that, Guimaraes and Joelinton seem keen to leave. There is speculation around the future of Nick Pope as well. And although not a veteran, Lewis Hall appears to be drawing the interest of Manchester United and Chelsea right now.
That is just far too much to say goodbye to at once. And at the same time, the club have only signed youngsters so far in this summer transfer window.
So, it is not going to be a simple task to navigate the rest of this window. Let’s not forget, this team finished 12th and if they are not careful, they might find themselves in a relegation battle next season.
