Newcastle United have confirmed Matthias Jaissle as their new head coach following Eddie Howe’s departure, with the German signing a four-year contract at St James’ Park.
The Magpies have reportedly paid £9.5 million in compensation to Saudi Pro League side Al Ahli to secure the services of the 38-year-old, who will take charge of his first match when Newcastle face Valencia in a pre-season friendly at the Mestalla next Saturday.
Jaissle arrives on Tyneside after impressing in Saudi Arabia and now faces the challenge of building on the foundations established under Howe, who guided Newcastle back into contention among the Premier League’s leading clubs.
Jaissle: ‘An incredible place to be’
Speaking after his appointment, Jaissle admitted Newcastle‘s long-term vision played a decisive role in his decision to accept the role.
“When Newcastle United comes your way, you take notice,” he told Sky Sports.
“The ambition of the club, the vision for the future and the opportunity ahead made this an incredibly compelling place to be.
“I have followed the club’s journey closely in recent years and the progress that has been made is clear for everyone to see.
“I am incredibly excited about the future. I fully and unreservedly believe in this project, the ambition and the direction the club is taking.
“There is a clear vision, strong leadership and an exceptional platform to build on,” he added.
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Special and a privilege
The new head coach also spoke about the responsibility of leading one of England’s most passionately supported clubs.
“They were stressful days, it’s behind us now but there were really good honest conversations with the decision makers at Newcastle – and obviously, overall there is only excitement.
“Joining this marvellous club, with this fan base, is something special and a privilege.
“The Premier League is something special by itself, but joining this club is even more special. With that fan base, with that passion the supporters show for the club, it’s really interesting to be part of it.
“It comes as a big privilege, but with big responsibility too. I will do my best to live up to it.”
Jaissle now turns his attention to preparing Newcastle United for the new Premier League campaign, with supporters eager to see how the German coach stamps his identity on a squad that continues to harbour ambitions of challenging both domestically and in Europe.
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