Eddie Howe is facing increasing pressure at Newcastle United following a disappointing 3-2 home defeat to Brentford on February 7, 2026. The loss has intensified scrutiny on Howe, with the team now sitting in 12th place and their hopes of qualifying for a Champions League campaign dwindling.
Newcastle took an early lead through Sven Botman, his first goal since New Year's Day 2024. However, Brentford responded with goals from Vitaly Janelt and Igor Thiago, the latter from a penalty, to turn the game around. Bruno Guimaraes, returning from injury, leveled the score with a penalty in the 79th minute, but Dango Ouattara struck five minutes from time to secure the win for Brentford. Ouattara also assisted on Janelt's earlier goal, marking his 100th Premier League appearance with a goal and an assist.
The defeat means Newcastle have now dropped 19 Premier League points from winning positions this season. After the match, a visibly frustrated Howe took "full responsibility" for the result, stating he wasn't doing his job well enough and needed to "work better" and "do more". He also acknowledged the "harsh reality" he faces and emphasized the need to find solutions and demand more from his players. Howe remained locked in the dressing room with his players for over 45 minutes after the final whistle.
The home crowd at St. James' Park did not hide their disappointment, booing the team off the pitch. One supporter directed strong verbal criticism towards Howe near the dugout. This defeat marks another setback in what has been a difficult run of form for Newcastle, with just one win in their last eight matches across all competitions.
Brentford's head coach, Keith Andrews, praised his team's "fearlessness" and their determination to win, highlighting their confidence even after Newcastle's equalizer. This victory was Brentford's first at St. James' Park since 1934.
Adding to the challenges, Howe has previously spoken about the club's need for clarity regarding long-term infrastructure projects, including a new training ground and stadium, emphasizing the need to end the "limbo" surrounding these developments. He believes these improvements are crucial for the club to progress and compete at the highest level. Howe has admitted that Newcastle are facing an unprecedented amount of games and are still adjusting as a club to the challenges that come with competing in multiple competitions.
With Newcastle's hopes of securing Champions League football next season fading, and a tough run of away games on the horizon, Howe faces a critical period to turn things around and address the growing concerns surrounding the team's performance.