Roberto Mancini would be interested in becoming the next Newcastle United manager if the owners decide to replace Eddie Howe.
That is the view of HITC Football insider Graeme Bailey, who believes that PIF are considering Eddie Howe‘s future as Newcastle United manager amid what is proving to be a very disappointing season.
The Magpies were knocked out of the Champions League at the earliest opportunity, and are currently 10th in the Premier League. It is a far cry from last season, leading to Howe being put under pressure.
There have been claims that his job at St James’ Park is safe, but it has been reported PIF are looking at possible alternatives, and one manager they have considered is Roberto Mancini.
But would the current Saudi Arabia boss be keen? That is certainly the view of Bailey.
Roberto Mancini ‘open’ to becoming Newcastle manager
Geordie Boot Boys have spoke to HITC insider Graeme Bailey, and he believes that Mancini would be open to the prospect of becoming Newcastle United manager.
“From what I’m told, Mancini would be open to it [becoming Newcastle manager],” he said.
“He [Mancini] was one of the catalysts for what happened at Man City. He won their first Premier League title. If I was PIF, Roberto Mancini would be very much towards the top of my list, not the Jose Mourinho’s of this world.
“Mancini has been in this position. He’s taken over from a very popular manager previously.
“He’s been able to bring in these top quality players, and yeah Newcastle can bring big players in too, but you’re not telling me that Roberto Mancini can’t attract more players than Eddie Howe. That’s just a fact. Mancini can attract a player without having to pay them X amount of money. Yes, Newcastle with Howe can get the player in but you might have to pay him that much more.”
Roberto Mancini already has links with PIF
If Newcastle do decide to change manager, Mancini could prove to be an ideal option given his pedigree, while he already has ties to PIF due to his role with Saudi Arabia. He became their manager last year, and has a deal until 2027.
“I think it’s a great fit,” Bailey added.
“He’s got that link with PIF already being the Saudi Arabia manager. I think that would be an easy out, it’s safe to say. Interestingly, he was managing at St James’ Park not long ago with Saudi Arabia.”
Eddie Howe could still continue as Newcastle manager
But nothing is for sure at this moment in time. Eddie Howe is still the Newcastle United manager, and will likely continue in his role if he enjoys a bright end to season. He can still guide the Magpies back into Europe, with the Europa League not out of the question.
However, it is only right that PIF are looking further into the future. That is why they are doing their due diligence over other managers, according to Bailey.
“PIF are assessing the situation. You’d be surprised, as a Newcastle fan, if the owners weren’t doing their due diligence.
“If they did move on from Howe, you wouldn’t want them to be axing him without a plan in place.”
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