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“Wrong’ – Paul Mitchell Finally Breaks Silence on Explosive Eddie Howe Tensions at Newcastle United
Paul Mitchell has praised Eddie Howe as an “extremely talented” manager while discussing their working relationship at Newcastle United. Mitchell’s arrival at St James’ Park came during a turbulent period, with the club undergoing significant changes. Co-owners Amanda Staveley and Mehrdad Ghodoussi left, and sporting director Dan Ashworth also departed.
After taking over from Ashworth in July, Mitchell was thrust into a hectic summer transfer window with limited preparation time. The club’s focus on signing Marc Guehi, a player Howe had expressed interest in, fell short due to Crystal Palace’s £70 million asking price. Only young forward William Osula, free agent Lloyd Kelly, and backup goalkeeper Odysseas Vlachodimos were added, leaving supporters frustrated by the lack of high-profile signings.
In response to mounting criticism, Mitchell addressed the media in September, assuring fans that he would take a more active role in the transfer process. Speculation about how he and Howe would collaborate followed, with both downplaying any tension. The two were seen together at a boxing event in Saudi Arabia, and in the days that followed, Mitchell offered glowing praise for Howe.
“I’m not big on social media or the media in general, but we work closely together,” Mitchell explained at a fan event at the STACK in Newcastle. “It’s a natural collaboration. Eddie is the head coach and manager, and I’m the sporting director. The idea that we’re in constant contact or spend every moment together is simply not true. Eddie is an elite professional, and it would be foolish for me or any sporting director to micromanage someone who is extremely good at what he does.”
Mitchell continued, emphasizing that his role was to support Howe in whatever capacity needed, adding, “My job is to collaborate, support, challenge, and debate, all for the benefit of the club. Eddie is an outstanding coach, and our collaboration happens as often as required. I’ve worked with many intelligent coaches over the years, and Eddie definitely belongs in that group.”
The sporting director also clarified that his responsibilities extend beyond the first team. “I have other duties, too, such as supporting Steve at the Academy and helping to develop the next generation of talent for the first team. As Darren Eales has said, it’s also about building a model to increase our revenue streams.”
Mitchell further explained, “The modern game relies on a trading model, and while the media may think otherwise, I can’t always be by Eddie’s side as much as I’d like. We were lucky to enjoy some time together at the boxing event in Saudi Arabia, but I have other important responsibilities that demand my attention.”
