With Eddie Howe potentially eyeing the England job, Newcastle United is preparing for a managerial shift. Here are the top three candidates poised to take the helm at St James' Park.

Mauricio Pochettino

If Eddie Howe departs, Mauricio Pochettino is a frontrunner for the Newcastle job. The 52-year-old Argentine, who recently parted ways with Chelsea, brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record in the Premier League.

• Career Highlights:
  • Transformed Tottenham Hotspur into a top-four regular and guided them to the 2019 Champions League final.
  • Revitalized Chelsea towards the end of last season, leading them to an impressive run of form despite internal conflicts.
  • Known for his ability to develop young talent and instill a high-pressing, attractive style of play.
• Potential Impact at Newcastle:
  • Pochettino’s tactical acumen and experience in English football would be invaluable in taking Newcastle to the next level.
  • His reputation for nurturing young players aligns with Newcastle’s long-term vision and the club's ambitions to compete at the highest level.

  🚨🚨| Newcastle have their eyes on Mauricio Pochettino if Eddie Howe chooses to manage the England national team. 👀🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿
  
  [@MailSport] pic.twitter.com/LkYjWbyTpo

  — CentreGoals. (@centregoals) July 21, 2024

Thomas Tuchel

Thomas Tuchel, currently without a club, is another top candidate. The German manager, known for his tactical brilliance and high-pressing style, has an impressive resume that includes a Champions League triumph with Chelsea.

• Career Highlights:
  • Won the Champions League with Chelsea in 2021, cementing his status as one of the top managers in Europe.
  • Successfully managed Borussia Dortmund, winning the DFB-Pokal and consistently challenging for the Bundesliga title.
  • Renowned for his tactical flexibility and ability to quickly adapt his team to different challenges.
• Potential Impact at Newcastle:
  • Tuchel’s high-pressing, energetic style would invigorate Newcastle, making them a formidable force in the Premier League.
  • His experience with top clubs in Europe ensures he knows what it takes to compete in the Champions League, aligning with Newcastle’s ambitions.

🚨— “Bayern Munich have Eddie Howe on their list of possible managers to replace Thomas Tuchel this summer.” @BILD

• Newcastle have no intention of letting him go! #NUFC pic.twitter.com/a7aaBVeFpq

— FtblJoe (@FtblJoe) May 20, 2024

Zinedine Zidane

Zinedine Zidane, the legendary French manager, has been linked with a move to Newcastle, particularly if the club's owners, PIF, acquire Marseille. Zidane, out of work since leaving Real Madrid, brings a winning mentality and an illustrious managerial record.

• Career Highlights:
  • Won three consecutive Champions League titles with Real Madrid, a feat unparalleled in modern football.
  • Secured two La Liga titles with Real Madrid, showcasing his ability to lead a team to domestic success.
  • Known for his leadership, tactical nous, and the ability to manage star-studded squads effectively.
• Potential Impact at Newcastle:
  • Zidane’s winning pedigree and experience in managing top talents would be a massive boost for Newcastle’s aspirations.
  • His global stature would attract top players to Newcastle, helping to build a squad capable of challenging for major honors.
  • Zidane’s calm and composed demeanor could be crucial in managing the pressures that come with Newcastle’s ambitious project.

🚨🚨| Newcastle's Saudi owners are considering a full takeover of Marseille and want Zinedine Zidane as manager.

[Sun Sport] pic.twitter.com/P6e7UOlC0Y

— CentreGoals. (@centregoals) September 29, 2023

Conclusion

Newcastle United’s managerial future is poised for an exciting turn if Eddie Howe steps down. With elite candidates like Mauricio Pochettino, Thomas Tuchel, and Zinedine Zidane in the mix, the Magpies are well-positioned to continue their ascent in English football. Whether it’s Pochettino’s development acumen, Tuchel’s tactical genius, or Zidane’s winning mentality, Newcastle fans have plenty to look forward to in the potential new era at St James' Park.