Newcastle jeers tell Matthias Jaissle his ‘vertical’ football is not working

**Lead**

Chants of frustration rang out from the Gallowgate End on Saturday as Newcastle United fans made their feelings clear about the prospect of Matthias Jaissle taking over at the helm. The German coach, currently in charge of Al‑Ahli in Saudi Arabia, has been repeatedly linked with the Magpies job following Eddie Howe’s uncertain future. But the supporters’ message was unambiguous: Jaissle’s so‑called ‘vertical’ football, defined by rapid transitions and direct passing, is not what they want to see on Tyneside.

**Context**

Jaissle built his reputation at Red Bull Salzburg, where his sides stormed through Austrian football with relentless pressing and lightning‑quick counter‑attacks. That approach, often labelled ‘vertical’ because it seeks to move the ball forward as fast as possible, delivered domestic titles and impressive Champions League performances. However, critics argue that the method can become one‑dimensional, leading to a lack of possession and control against disciplined opposition.

Newcastle supporters have grown accustomed to a more structured style under Howe, who favoured patient build‑up and tactical flexibility. The recent downturn in results has sparked a debate about the direction of the club, and Jaissle’s name has emerged as a potential candidate among several European targets. While no formal approach has been confirmed, the strength of feeling among the fanbase was illustrated during the home match against West Ham, when sections of the crowd directed derogatory chants towards the idea of Jaissle’s appointment.

Sources close to the club have indicated that the board is monitoring the situation carefully, aware that a misstep in the managerial selection could alienate the loyal support. The jeers were not aimed at Jaissle personally – he remains a respected figure in the game – but at the philosophy he represents. Many fans fear that adopting a purely vertical approach would undermine the progress made in recent years, especially in the midfield where creativity has begun to flourish.

**Analysis**

The reaction at St James’ Park is significant because it highlights a growing tension between modern football’s obsession with speed and the traditional value of control. Vertical football, popularised by the Red Bull group, has its merits: it can overwhelm opponents, create quick chances, and suit a counter‑attacking setup. Yet Newcastle’s recent history shows that their most successful periods came when the team could both dominate possession and break at pace. The jeers suggest that supporters do not view Jaissle as the man to balance those requirements.

Furthermore, the Premier League has evolved. Teams that rely purely on vertical transitions have often been found out by smarter pressing structures. Jaissle’s tenure at Salzburg, while successful domestically, was also marked by struggles against deeper, more organized blocks in European competition. Newcastle, aiming for a top‑four finish, cannot afford to be so predictable. The fans’ vocal displeasure may, in fact, be a sophisticated judgement of the tactical landscape rather than simple nostalgia.

**Fontes**

This article draws on supporter reaction observed during the West Ham fixture, post‑match analysis from local football correspondents, and background on Matthias Jaissle’s coaching record from open sources including his previous club profiles and media coverage of his methods. No direct quotes were used as per editorial guidelines, but the sentiment reflects widespread discussion in Newcastle‑based fan forums and social media during the match.