Howe admits Newcastle in ‘abnormal’ phase ahead of Manchester United meeting

Eddie Howe admits Newcastle are in unfamiliar territory as they prepare to host Manchester United, with three successive Premier League defeats at St James’ Park leaving the head coach searching for answers.

Even during his early months in charge in 2021, when Newcastle were fighting relegation, Howe did not endure such a run on home soil. The current downturn, he says, feels out of place.

“When you get a blip like we’ve had, it feels abnormal,” Howe said ahead of Wednesday’s fixture. “It feels unusual. It doesn’t feel good. It’s hurting us. We pride ourselves on trying to give our supporters what they want and we haven’t been able to.”

Defensive fragility has been central to Newcastle’s recent struggles, but the club are also continuing to adjust following the departure of striker Alexander Isak, who joined Liverpool in a £125 million move last summer.

Benjamin Sesko was one of the forwards Newcastle pursued as a potential successor, yet the Slovenia international opted instead for Old Trafford. After a slow start with United, Sesko has found form in 2026, scoring six league goals this calendar year.

Howe is under no illusions about the challenge posed by United’s attacking options.

“Manchester United have recruited very well,” he said. “The players you have mentioned are outstanding players – players we were aware of in the summer – so well done to them.

“I’m really happy with the new players we have got. Of course, they’re all on different journeys to reach their best level. I believe they will get there.”

There have been positives. Defender Malick Thiaw has impressed since arriving, while Jacob Ramsey has begun to exert greater influence in midfield.

Others, however, are still adapting. Anthony Elanga is working towards more consistency, Nick Woltemade has been deployed deeper after an early burst of goals, and Yoane Wissa has managed only three goals since his move from Brentford.

Howe accepts scrutiny is inevitable during a difficult spell but urged patience as his squad continues to evolve.

“Of course, there are question marks and people will have different opinions,” he said. “But a case in point will be Jacob Ramsey – just give players a bit of time to prove their worth and settle into what we ask them to do.”