Newcastle United’s current campaign has been one of extremes, showing flashes of brilliance one week and complete disarray the next. The difference in their performances between competitions is staggering.
In the Champions League and Carabao Cup, they’ve looked composed, hungry, and capable of taking on Europe’s best. Yet in the Premier League, they’ve often appeared flat, lacking energy, creativity, and direction.
The recent performance against West Ham United summed up their league struggles perfectly it was widely described as one of the worst displays since Eddie Howe took charge, and few could disagree.
The inconsistency has left supporters frustrated and puzzled. It’s difficult to pinpoint exactly what’s gone wrong because Newcastle are still playing under the same manager, with many of the same players, and using a similar tactical approach that once delivered such thrilling results.
If it were an easy fix, Howe and his coaching team would no doubt have corrected it already. But this season, something has clearly shifted.
Among those struggling to find their rhythm is Joelinton, a player who has been at the heart of Newcastle’s transformation under Howe. The Brazilian, once ridiculed for his early struggles as a striker, became a fan favourite when repositioned as a dynamic box-to-box midfielder.
His energy, physicality, and aggression turned him into one of the Premier League’s most dominant midfielders. But this season, that same ferocity seems to have vanished. The “monster” version of Joelinton that fans came to adore has barely been seen, and it’s becoming a growing concern.
According to a report from the i Paper, Newcastle may already be planning for life beyond Joelinton. The club are said to have discussed a long-term replacement for the Brazilian during the summer, partly due to his recent injury troubles.
Atalanta midfielder Ederson, who has been linked with Newcastle in previous windows, was reportedly one of the names considered as a potential successor.
The idea of replacing Joelinton would have been unthinkable a year ago, given how vital he was to Newcastle’s rise back to the top level of English football.
Alongside Bruno Guimarães and Sandro Tonali, he helped form one of the most balanced and powerful midfields in the Premier League. However, form and fitness have taken a toll. Joelinton’s influence has faded, and his performances have lacked the drive and sharpness that once made him indispensable.
At his best, Joelinton was the engine of Howe’s team the player who pressed relentlessly, won key duels, and drove the ball forward with authority.
Now, he seems a step slower, less confident, and at times, completely out of sync with the rhythm of the game. Injuries have certainly played a role, but his drop in form has raised genuine questions about his long-term role at the club.
If Newcastle do move forward with a succession plan, Ederson would make a lot of sense. The Brazilian midfielder possesses a similar mix of athleticism, technical ability, and aggression. He could fit seamlessly into Howe’s system, offering a like-for-like replacement while bringing his own strengths to the table.
Still, for many Newcastle supporters, the thought of a future without Joelinton is difficult to accept. He represents the grit and passion that defined Newcastle’s resurgence under Howe—qualities that fans deeply admire.
It’s not just Joelinton who’s been struggling. Several other players have failed to meet expectations this season. Anthony Elanga, for example, has looked completely off the pace.
At times, it seems as if he’s still trying to adapt to the system, but given how long he’s been at the club now, that excuse is starting to wear thin. His decision-making has been questionable, and his impact on games minimal.
The wider issue is that too many of Newcastle’s key players are underperforming simultaneously. When confidence dips across the squad, it creates a ripple effect that makes it difficult for anyone to shine.
Joelinton’s dip in form is just one piece of a larger puzzle an issue of momentum, belief, and perhaps fatigue after an intense few seasons.
What’s certain is that Newcastle need to rediscover their balance quickly. Howe has built his success on energy, discipline, and a strong team ethic, but those qualities have faded in recent weeks.
Players like Joelinton will need to find their spark again if the Magpies are to turn their season around.
Fans still love Joelinton for everything he’s given to the club. They remember the battles he’s fought, the passion he’s shown, and how he helped redefine Newcastle’s identity.
Whether this is just a temporary slump or the beginning of the end for his time on Tyneside remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: Newcastle United without Joelinton simply doesn’t feel the same and for many supporters, that’s a reality they’re not quite ready to face.
