Eddie Howe to miss two Newcastle matches after pneumonia diagnosis

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe recovering in hospital and will miss matches against Palace and Aston Villa.

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe acknowledges the fans after the Premier League match against Leicester City at the King Power Stadium in Leicester, England, on April 7, 2025. Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images

By Anna Fadiah and Hayu Andini

Newcastle United have confirmed that manager Eddie Howe will miss two matches after a pneumonia diagnosis, with the 47-year-old currently recovering in hospital. Howe, who had been feeling unwell for several days, was admitted on Friday and subsequently missed the club’s emphatic 4-1 Premier League victory over Manchester United on Sunday.

The Magpies announced that Howe will remain absent for Wednesday’s fixture against Crystal Palace at St James’ Park and Saturday’s trip to Aston Villa. During his recovery, his assistants Jason Tindall and Graeme Jones will oversee preparations and matchday responsibilities.

The club’s official statement noted: “Newcastle United can announce that Eddie Howe is recovering in hospital after being diagnosed with pneumonia. The club continues to extend its best wishes and support to Eddie and his family as he continues his recovery.”

This development comes at a pivotal point in Newcastle’s season, with the club pushing for a Champions League return and eyeing a strong finish in the Premier League.

A manager watching from a hospital bed

Despite being sidelined, Howe remained fully invested in the team's success. He reportedly watched the victory over Manchester United from his hospital bed and later sent his congratulations to the players and staff.

In a personal message shared via Newcastle’s official channels, Howe expressed heartfelt gratitude for the outpouring of support he has received.

“A huge thank you to everyone connected with Newcastle United and the wider football community for your messages and warm wishes. They have meant a lot to me and my family,” Howe said.

The win over Manchester United marked a return to form for the Magpies, who dominated the game with clinical finishing and high pressing. The result lifted them into the Premier League’s top four, and if they avoid defeat against Crystal Palace, they will move into third place—above Nottingham Forest.

Jason Tindall and Graeme Jones take charge

In Howe’s absence, long-time assistant Jason Tindall and experienced coach Graeme Jones will lead the team. The pair have already worked closely with Howe for years and are well-versed in his football philosophy.

Tindall, who also served as Howe’s assistant at Bournemouth, is known for his tactical knowledge and player management. Graeme Jones, meanwhile, brings valuable experience from stints with the England national team and other Premier League sides.

This temporary handover ensures continuity, but it also puts added pressure on the coaching duo to maintain Newcastle’s form during a demanding week. The team faces Palace midweek before traveling to Villa Park—two matches that could define their Champions League credentials.

Howe’s health and recovery timeline

Pneumonia, an infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs, often requires rest and careful monitoring—especially in cases involving high workloads, such as managing a Premier League football club. While the club has not provided an exact timeline for Howe’s return, the decision to sideline him for two matches suggests a cautious approach.

Medical experts usually recommend patients with pneumonia take time off to fully recover, avoid stress, and allow their lungs to heal. Given Howe’s demanding role and the high-stakes nature of the season, his health understandably takes priority.

The football world has united in wishing him a speedy recovery, with messages coming from fans, players, and fellow managers.

A crucial phase in Newcastle’s season

Newcastle’s run-in to the end of the season is critical. With Champions League qualification on the line, each game carries significant weight. The upcoming home match against Crystal Palace is a must-win, while the trip to Villa could prove tricky, given Unai Emery’s side has been tough to beat at home.

The club's ability to maintain its rhythm without its manager on the sidelines will be tested. However, with a solid backroom team in place, the Magpies will aim to push forward and continue their impressive campaign.

Newcastle have one of the league’s best defensive records and boast a growing list of attacking options, including Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon, who starred in the win over United. If the players can stay focused and disciplined, they should be able to manage this brief period without their manager.

Support from the football community

Since news broke of Eddie Howe’s hospitalization, the football world has shown solidarity. Former players, rival managers, pundits, and supporters have all sent their best wishes. Social media has been filled with messages of support, highlighting Howe’s respected position in English football.

He has transformed Newcastle into a high-energy, resilient side capable of competing with the top clubs. His absence will certainly be felt, but the foundations he has laid are strong enough to see the team through a short-term challenge.

What’s next for Newcastle?

The focus now turns to Wednesday’s match against Crystal Palace. The atmosphere at St James’ Park is expected to be electric, not only in support of the team but also as a show of unity behind their absent manager. Fans are already planning banners and chants in support of Howe, who has become a beloved figure on Tyneside.

Saturday’s game at Aston Villa will pose another test, but if Newcastle can take four to six points from these two fixtures, it would solidify their status in the top four and set the stage for a thrilling final stretch.

Once Howe is healthy and ready to return, he’ll be rejoining a squad still chasing history.