Eddie Howe has said he is ‘100%’ focused on success at Newcastle despite speculation linking him with the vacant role at Manchester United.
Manchester United are searching for a new head coach after dismissing Ruben Amorim on Monday. Darren Fletcher will take charge of the Red Devils against Burnley tonight, while former manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has offered his services in a caretaker role.
Longer-term, the club are keen to appoint a manager with Premier League experience. Howe is one of several names mentioned as a potential candidate, alongside Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner and Bournemouth’s Andoni Iraola.
The 48-year-old has been in charge of Newcastle since 2021 and ended the club’s long wait for a major trophy with League Cup success last season. He’s also twice led the Magpies to Champions League qualification.
However, Howe has distanced himself from reports of interest from Old Trafford. Speaking at his pre-match press conference ahead of facing Leeds tonight, he said he’s 100% focused on success at St James’ Park.
Eddie Howe says nothing can tempt him away from Newcastle at “this current time” ❌
He had been linked to Chelsea and Manchester United in the last week. pic.twitter.com/73jqMtH20y
— Match of the Day (@BBCMOTD) January 6, 2026
“Nothing has changed from my perspective – I’m 100 per cent here, working as hard as I can, head down, ignoring all the stuff that you guys write good or bad because it’s irrelevant.
“It’s about today’s work and trying to prepare the team as well as we can for Leeds, so that will never change from my perspective, my commitment to my work and my job.
“As long as I’m happy and able to express myself in the best way that I can to help the team, nothing will change.”
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