Newcastle United have confirmed the departure of Becky Langley as manager of the Women’s team in an official club statement released on Monday afternoon.
The decision marks the end of a remarkable chapter in the club’s women’s football history, but it’s not entirely unexpected given the team’s struggles this season despite major investment and big ambitions.
With the Women’s Super League expanding this year, there was a huge opportunity for promotion as two clubs would go up automatically, while a third could potentially earn a spot through a playoff with a bottom-tier Super League side.
Newcastle United Women were among the favorites to take advantage of this new format after the club’s strong backing and professional setup, but results have fallen far below expectations.
After six league games, the team have managed just one win and currently sit ninth in the twelve-team Women’s Championship table, leaving them seven points adrift of the automatic promotion spots.
Considering the talent, infrastructure, and financial resources invested, the slow start raised questions about whether the current management could deliver the results expected at this level.
That uncertainty has now been answered with the club’s decision to part ways with Langley.
Becky Langley’s contribution to Newcastle United Women has been immense and historic. Appointed in 2019, she guided the side through back-to-back promotions, taking them from the fourth tier to the Women’s Super League 2.
Under her leadership, the team achieved professional status in 2023 becoming the first third-tier women’s club to do so. That moment was seen as a major step forward, both for Newcastle United and for women’s football in the North East.
Langley also oversaw some iconic milestones, including the team’s first-ever matches played at St. James’ Park, where record-breaking attendances reflected the city’s growing passion for the women’s game.
Her first season in WSL2 ended with a respectable fifth-place finish, signaling progress and potential for future success.
However, this season’s poor start has clearly forced the club’s hand, as Newcastle United Women’s ambitions have grown rapidly in line with their investments. The goal was clear promotion to the top flight and with the team lagging behind early on, the board felt change was necessary to reignite that push.
In their official statement, Newcastle United expressed deep gratitude for Langley’s service, acknowledging her vital role in shaping the foundation of the club’s women’s setup.
The message read: “Becky has played a significant role in the club’s rise since being appointed in 2019, achieving back-to-back promotions and leading the team through its professional transformation.
Everyone at Newcastle United thanks Becky sincerely for her service to the club and wishes her the very best in her future career.”
The club confirmed that an interim coaching structure will be put in place while the search for a new manager begins.
The next appointment will be a crucial one, as Newcastle United Women look to rescue their season and get back on track toward their long-term goal of reaching the Women’s Super League.
Becky Langley leaves behind a lasting legacy one built on passion, progress, and professionalism. While her departure marks the end of an era, her influence will continue to shape the future of women’s football at Newcastle United.
