Newcastle United confirmed on Wednesday that Steve Bruce has left the club by mutual consent. Following a dismal start to the Premier League season, Bruce, who managed his 1,000th game on Sunday where the team fell 3-2 to Tottenham Hotspur, was under fire. Bruce’s departure which was confirmed today has been widely expected ever since the Saudi Arabian led takeover of St James’ Park had been announced officially . His time has been marred by opposition from supporters who have consistently criticised his hiring and style of play, but he exits having fulfilled his goal of keeping the team in the Premier League.
“I am grateful to everyone connected with Newcastle United for the opportunity to manage this unique football club,” Bruce said. “I would like to thank my coaching team, the players and the support staff in particular for all their hard work. There have been highs and lows, but they have given everything even in difficult moments and should be proud of their efforts. This is a club with incredible support, and I hope the new owners can take it forward to where we all want it to be. I wish everyone the very best of luck for the rest of this season and beyond.”
#NUFC can confirm that Steve Bruce has left his position as head coach by mutual consent.
The club would like to place on record its gratitude to Steve for his contribution and wishes him well for the future.
— Newcastle United (@NUFC) October 20, 2021
Graeme Jones will take control on an interim basis, beginning with Saturday’s trip to Crystal Palace, according to a club statement. He will be backed up by the coaching staff of Steve Agnew, Stephen Clemence, Ben Dawson, and Simon Smith. Bruce replaced Rafa Benitez as Newcastle manager in July 2019, with the Spaniard opting to resign due to a lack of assurances over transfers after overseeing a 13th-place Premier League finish in his final season. Bruce,a former manager of Aston Villa, Hull City, and Sunderland, guided Newcastle to 13th and 12th place league finishes in the previous seasons.
