Matthias Jaissle has called Newcastle “an exceptionally attractive destination” after officially completing his move from Saudi Arabian club Al-Ahli.
The 38-year-old German joined his new squad at a training camp in La Manga, southern Spain, last Saturday. However, although both clubs are owned by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, Al-Ahli delayed supplying essential documents needed to release a head coach they were determined to keep.
Jaissle guided the Jeddah club to two Asian Champions League titles after previously earning widespread praise for his successful spell in charge of RB Salzburg. Considered among football’s leading young coaches, he will now take over as head coach at St James’ Park.
Replacing Eddie Howe presents a major challenge, particularly with the new season just two weeks away. Newcastle have also seen three important players leave this summer: Anthony Gordon, Sandro Tonali and Bruno Guimarães, who is set to join Arsenal.
Jaissle is not discouraged by the scale of the task. “An approach from Newcastle United is impossible to ignore,” he said. “The club’s ambition, its long-term plans and the opportunities ahead make this a hugely appealing place to work.
“I am extremely enthusiastic about what lies ahead. I have complete confidence in this project, the club’s ambitions and the path it has chosen. There is a well-defined strategy, decisive leadership and an outstanding foundation for future progress.”
Howe’s Newcastle side adopted the motto “intensity is our identity”, and Jaissle indicated that his approach would share similar qualities. “My teams depend on unity, determination and a constant desire to develop,” he said.
“This squad and the wider club possess tremendous potential. I will devote all my effort, commitment and energy to delivering more success for Newcastle.”
After Howe’s coaching team left alongside him, Jaissle has begun putting together his own backroom staff. David Hopkinson, Newcastle’s chief executive, and sporting director Ross Wilson appear confident that he can improve a team that ended last season in a disappointing 12th place in the Premier League. “Matthias is regarded as one of the game’s most talented and promising young coaches, and I am delighted to welcome him to Newcastle,” Hopkinson said.
Wilson said: “Matthias’s approach to leadership and his footballing principles closely match our sporting strategy. His sides perform with great intensity, and his enthusiasm was clear in every conversation we had during the appointment process.”
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