Former Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has reportedly rejected a managerial approach from Champions League participants Lens.
Eddie Howe has turned down the opportunity to return to football management with a prominent European club following his departure from Newcastle United earlier this year.
The 48-year-old manager, who guided the Magpies back to the Champions League and secured a historic Carabao Cup victory, decided to step away from his role after five years at St. James' Park.
According to information published by FOOTBALL, French Ligue 1 side Lens approached Howe about taking over at Stade Bollaert-Delelis before eventually hiring interim boss Yannick Cahuzac on a permanent basis.
Eddie Howe Rejects Ligue 1 Approach
The approach from Lens came after manager Pierre Sage departed the French club to take charge at Crystal Palace following a successful campaign that secured a Champions League spot.
Despite the lure of European competition, Howe opted to turn down the offer. The former Bournemouth boss is currently enjoying a family sabbatical on the south coast of England.
His departure from Tyneside followed a transitional summer where several star players were sold for significant profit, prompting the manager to conclude his tenure.
Success at Newcastle United
Howe arrived at Newcastle as the first managerial appointment under the club's new Saudi Arabian ownership, successfully steering the team away from a relegation battle.
He went on to deliver the Carabao Cup in 2025, which ended a 56-year wait for a major trophy and made him the first English manager to win a major honour in 17 years.
During his five years in the northeast, Howe transformed the squad before ultimately deciding to walk away, paving the way for Matthias Jaissle to oversee the club transition.
South Coast Roots and Sabbatical
Currently resting on the south coast, Howe is taking a well-deserved break similar to the extended sabbatical he took after leaving his previous role at AFC Bournemouth.
During his celebrated second spell at Dean Court, Howe famously guided the Cherries from the third tier all the way to the Premier League in just three and a half years.
His previous career break involved traveling across Europe to observe other tacticians, a period of reflection that clearly shaped his modern tactical approach upon joining Newcastle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Eddie Howe leave Newcastle United?
Eddie Howe decided to leave Newcastle United of his own accord after five years in charge, following a summer transfer window that saw several key players sold and the squad enter a transitional phase.
Which club approached Eddie Howe recently?
Ligue 1 club Lens approached Eddie Howe to gauge his interest in becoming their manager after Pierre Sage departed for Crystal Palace, but Howe turned down the offer.
What did Eddie Howe achieve at Newcastle United?
Eddie Howe led Newcastle to Champions League qualification and won the Carabao Cup in 2025, ending the club's 56-year trophy drought and becoming the first English manager to win a major honour in 17 years.
Where is Eddie Howe currently working?
Eddie Howe is not currently working and is enjoying a family sabbatical on the south coast of England following his departure from Newcastle United.
