Newcastle United decline can be traced back to exactly 17 months ago today…

An opinion piece on NUFC The Mag argues that Newcastle United's decline began on May 18, 2025, during an away defeat to Arsenal. The writer claims striker Alexander Isak lost focus ahead of an eventual exit, while the club's ownership failed to properly support then-manager Eddie Howe in the subsequent transfer window after operating without a permanent sporting director or chief executive.

The article outlines Newcastle's subsequent transition under sporting director Ross Wilson, chief executive David Hopkinson, and new manager Matthias Jaissle following Howe's departure. The writer notes that UEFA financial regulations forced the club to sell key players, reduce wages, and invest in younger talent, contributing to early-season struggles and a difficult 2026/27 campaign.