Matthias Jaissle, the 38-year-old German coach tipped to replace Eddie Howe at Newcastle United, has built his reputation in Austria and Saudi Arabia. After playing for Hoffenheim, he progressed through Red Bull's academy system before taking charge of FC Liefering and then Red Bull Salzburg in 2021.

At Salzburg, Jaissle won the domestic double in his first season and retained the league title in his second, developing talents like Karim Adeyemi and Benjamin Sesko while competing in the Champions League. He moved to Al Ahli in the Saudi Pro League in 2023, winning the Saudi Super Cup in Hong Kong.

Jaissle's philosophy stems from the Red Bull school, emphasizing high pressing and direct play, though he resists pigeonholing. He has evolved from a narrow 4-4-2 at Salzburg to a flexible 4-2-3-1 at Al Ahli, stressing principles over formations. He predicted increased physicality and the rise of versatile all-rounders in modern football.

Despite his tactical sophistication, Jaissle prioritizes player connection. He values one-on-one communication and careful information management, recognizing that motivation remains the foundation of leadership in multicultural dressing rooms.