Howe hails ‘incredible season’ as Newcastle secure Champions League return – and pays tribute to Wilson | OneFootball

Eddie Howe hailed his Newcastle players for achieving an “incredible season” after qualifying for Champions League football.

Despite a 1-0 defeat to Everton on the final day, Newcastle’s top-five finish was confirmed thanks to Aston Villa’s 2-0 loss to Manchester United, with Howe’s side clinching fifth place on goal difference. This result seals The Magpies place in the 2025/26 Champions League.

It marks a season of real progress for the club, who also won the Carabao Cup back in March in a 2-1 victory over Liverpool, which saw the Magpies lift their first major piece of silverware since 1955, when they won the FA Cup.

Reflecting on the season, Howe praised his squad’s resilience and character: “I think we’ve had an incredible season, and the players deserve a lot of credit and praise, in terms of how they’ve handled the season, how they’ve conducted themselves.

“We’ve had some sticky moments, we’ve had some massive ups and downs, but we got there and it was fully deserved.

“In the beginning of the season, there was a little bit of uncertainty, but we’ve always given our best. I think we’ve tried to give real honesty in our performances.

“The players have given their all, and with the amount of games, including the cup run, the players’ mindsets have been incredible.

“You know what the hypotheticals are, but now you have to do it. First domestic trophy in 70 years, Champions League place, just how big an achievement is it? It’s a massive achievement. A massive season for us.

“To win a cup was a game-changer for us. The quality of teams and players should never be underestimated. It’s enough to get back into the Champions League, which really sets the appetite for what next season could be.”

After the game, striker Callum Wilson was seen appearing to wave farewell to supporters at St James’ Park. Asked about his future, Howe responded: “What I can say is that Callum Wilson is, and has been, an incredible footballer for Newcastle. He’s someone who epitomises the spirit that has got us to where we are.

“Let’s wait and see what happens. It was great to see him have that relationship with the supporters.

“He’s professional, brave – to come here and be the number nine in the manner and the moment he did, it was a difficult moment in the club’s history. The club needed hope – and Callum gave them hope. He dealt with the pressure and responsibility that role brings unbelievably well.”