How Eddie Howe feels after not being consulted on Paul Mitchell’s appointment as sporting director

On Thursday morning, Newcastle United announced the appointment of Paul Mitchell as their new sporting director, concluding a prolonged and strategic search.

Mitchell was a top candidate to replace Dan Ashworth, who had resigned to join Manchester United. The delay in Mitchell’s appointment was due to Manchester United’s initial refusal to meet Newcastle’s compensation demands, a situation resolved over the weekend, leading to Mitchell’s unexpected but crucial arrival.

After a period of negotiation and strategic planning, the compensation issues between Newcastle and Manchester United were finally settled. This resolution paved the way for Mitchell’s appointment, which came as a surprise following the club’s earlier setbacks, including Dougie Freedman’s refusal to leave Crystal Palace. With Mitchell now on board, Newcastle can proceed with their transfer plans, benefiting from his availability and expertise as he was not tied to any other club.

Eddie Howe’s Reaction to the New Appointment

Despite the strategic advantage of Mitchell’s appointment, it has sparked internal controversy. Reports indicate that Eddie Howe, Newcastle’s head coach, was not consulted about this decision, leading to his dissatisfaction.

Sources within the club reveal that Howe, known for his “empire-building” tendencies, prefers having significant influence over key appointments and decisions, including personnel hiring. This situation mirrors previous tensions between Howe and former sporting director Ashworth, which had negatively impacted the club’s operations.

The initial friction between Howe and Mitchell raises concerns about their working relationship. Howe’s dissatisfaction stems from his desire to maintain control and trust in the team, evident in his reluctance to part with trusted players. To ensure the club’s success, it is crucial that Howe and Mitchell quickly establish a productive working relationship, overcoming these initial challenges.

Despite the rocky start, Paul Mitchell’s track record suggests he can bring substantial benefits to Newcastle United. His experience and strategic vision are expected to enhance the club’s transfer activities and overall performance. Mitchell’s ability to identify and secure top talent will be instrumental as Newcastle aims to strengthen its squad and compete at higher levels. The club’s management is optimistic that Mitchell’s appointment will yield positive outcomes, provided that he and Howe can collaborate effectively.

Mitchell’s appointment aligns with Newcastle United’s long-term goals, representing a strategic step towards enhancing the club’s performance. His role involves managing transfers and shaping the club’s overall strategy for sustained success.

As Newcastle navigates the complexities of internal politics and external competition, the focus remains on building a strong, cohesive team capable of achieving its ambitions in the Premier League and beyond.

The appointment of Paul Mitchell as sporting director marks a crucial phase in Newcastle United’s development. While initial tensions with Eddie Howe present challenges, the potential benefits of Mitchell’s expertise are significant. The success of this strategic move depends on the club’s leadership fostering a collaborative environment, ensuring that both Mitchell and Howe can work together towards common goals. As the new season approaches, Newcastle United fans will closely watch how this dynamic unfolds and impacts the team’s performance.