Jaissle heads for Newcastle after success in Saudi Arabia that has eluded so many
Matthias Jaissle, the successful coach of Al-Ahli in the Saudi Pro League, is being linked to the managerial position at Newcastle United. The potential move is facilitated by the shared ownership of both clubs by the Saudi Public Investment Fund.
Why it matters
The connection highlights the growing influence of state-backed investment funds in global football management and player recruitment.
Matthias Jaissle won two Austrian Bundesliga titles with Red Bull Salzburg before arriving at Al Ahli in summer 2023. Photograph: Reuters Matthias Jaissle won two Austrian Bundesliga titles with Red Bull Salzburg before arriving at Al Ahli in summer 2023. Photograph: Reuters Newcastle United Jaissle heads for Newcastle after success in Saudi Arabia that has eluded so many German coach was almost unknown on arrival in Saudi Pro League in 2023 but clinched major titles and won over fans
Prefer the Guardian on Google T aking over a big, underachieving port city club with a loyal fanbase that is desperate for success should not faze Matthias Jaissle. Should he take the role vacated by Eddie Howe , the 38-year-old German will leave Jeddah as a hero and arrive in the north-east as one of the most successful coaches in the history of Asian football.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in