Fulham and Manchester United have received a boost in their pursuit of Eddie Howe, as he has turned down RC Lens.
Eddie Howe has rejected an approach from Ligue 1 club Lens as the 48-year-old waits for the right managerial opportunity, with Manchester United and Fulham among clubs linked with his services. According to TEAMtalk, Howe is carefully assessing potential destinations and wants a project that matches his ambitions.
He stepped down from Newcastle United in the summer after almost five years in charge, leaving with his reputation intact after transforming the club into a side capable of competing for major honours. The Magpies subsequently appointed Matthias Jaissle to the role, while Howe has spent time with his family on the South Coast.
Premier League duo could look to appoint Howe
Manchester United and Fulham both face managerial pressure as their campaigns have faltered. United have won just one of their opening six Premier League games under Michael Carrick, collecting six points and sitting 13th in the table. Their defeat to Atletico Madrid in the Champions League means they have won only two of their nine matches across all competitions.
Fulham are in an even more difficult position under Alvaro Arbeloa, sitting bottom of the Premier League with just two points from six games and yet to record a league victory. The situations at both clubs suggest there could be a managerial change in the near future if things don’t improve.
Howe’s rejection of Lens demonstrates his refusal to compromise on his next appointment, underlining his determination to prioritise the overall project rather than accept an offer simply because it is available.
Lens emerged as a possible destination after making enquiries about Howe last month. The Ligue 1 club were seeking a replacement for Dino Toppmoller, who had taken over from Pierre Sage a couple of months back.
A move to Lens could have offered Howe the opportunity to manage a club competing in the Champions League. Despite the appeal of European football, however, the Englishman did not consider the opportunity the right fit and opted against pursuing it.
The Englishman’s achievements at Newcastle and Bournemouth mean Howe remains an attractive option for clubs seeking an experienced manager with a proven Premier League record. At 48, he has time to wait for a suitable project that aligns with his ambitions.
