Newcastle United’s turbulent 2024/25 campaign hit another low point with a 4-2 defeat against Brentford, just days after a promising 3-3 draw against league leaders Liverpool. The lack of consistency has been a persistent issue for Eddie Howe’s side, and the fallout from the Brentford game has been stark.
Defensive Frailties Exposed
Eddie Howe did not mince words, admitting that the defensive display was so poor his team would “cringe” watching it back. Midfielder Bruno Guimaraes added to the critique, calling the team’s structure a “mess.” Club legend Alan Shearer went further, branding the performance “hopeless.”
Manager’s Rare Criticism
Perhaps most concerning was Howe’s public questioning of his players’ attitude—an uncharacteristic move from the usually composed manager. In his three years at the helm, such direct criticism has been rare, signaling his growing frustration with the squad’s inability to perform consistently.
Fan and Ownership Concerns
While there is no indication that Howe is under pressure from Newcastle’s owners, PIF, the team’s inconsistent performances are testing the patience of fans. The club’s ambitious trajectory, fueled by significant investment, has set high expectations that the current form fails to meet.
What’s Next?
The spotlight is firmly on Howe and his players to turn things around before the pressure escalates further. With Newcastle boasting talent capable of competing at the highest level, the challenge will be regaining defensive solidity and fostering a mentality that matches their ambitions.
