Newcastle United are reportedly “looking very seriously” at sacking Eddie Howe and replacing him with Girona miracle-worker Michel.
Girona manager Michel Sanchez is understandably a man with plenty of suitors should jobs become available this year after leading minnows Girona to the top of La Liga, and the Premier League’s richest club have taken an interest in his superb work, according to Spanish outlet MARCA.
Despite only clinching promotion two seasons ago, the Catalan outfit have stunned the entire football world this season and come into 2024 tied with Real Madrid at the top of the table following their incredible 4-3 victory over Atletico Madrid.
While there has been no indication that it will happen soon, Michel has been projected as Pep Guardiola’s long-term successor at Manchester City, who are also owned by the City Football Group.
Meanwhile, at Camp Nou, the 48-year-old former Rayo Vallecano and Huesca manager has been touted several times as a possible replacement for Xavi Hernandez next summer, should President Joan Laporta lose trust in him. Girona, in any case, will have to fight hard to keep him.
However, as per MARCA, Newcastle United are the latest side to take him into consideration for a future position should they sack Eddie Howe in the coming weeks. The overwhelming majority of Newcastle supporters remain firmly behind the current manager, who was widely praised for steering the Magpies’ to Champions League qualification last season. But seven defeats in eight games across all competitions have stoked concern.
A rotten injury crisis has led to a downslide in form; Newcastle are in free-fall. Although injuries have been a major factor, they currently sit ninth in the Premier League. And after finishing bottom of their Champions League group and exiting the Carabao Cup in recent weeks, there is a good chance that they miss out on Europe altogether next season.
Certainly, Michel would be a great option for the St. James’ Park hierarchy if Howe’s unable to overturn the Toon’s flailing fortunes. The Spanish tactician is believed to have two more years remaining on his Girona contract after this season.
Newcastle United head to Sunderland for a crucial FA Cup third-round clash this weekend. And another setback might lead to a shift in mood among the fanbase. Newcastle would be one of the most appealing jobs in European football, given their newfound wealth.
