Eddie Howe, the manager of Newcastle United, is set to receive the Freedom of the City of Newcastle-upon-Tyne in recognition of his remarkable leadership that led the club to a historic Carabao Cup victory. The Magpies triumphed over Liverpool with a score of 2-1 on March 16, 2025, marking their first major trophy win since 1969 and ending a 70-year domestic trophy drought.
Howe’s nomination for the Freedom of the City is a significant honor that reflects not just the team's success, but also his role in revitalizing the club's fortunes. Karen Kilgour, the leader of Newcastle City Council, expressed her delight in nominating Howe for this esteemed accolade, stating, "Generations of supporters have never seen their beloved club lift a domestic trophy, and under his leadership we all now have treasured memories of a truly unforgettable day." This nomination underscores how much the club's success means to the local community.
This victory at Wembley was a culmination of hard work and determination for Newcastle United, with Howe becoming the first manager since 1955 to secure a domestic trophy for the team. The club’s 2023 final loss in the same competition had only intensified the desire to succeed, and Howe's steadying influence helped galvanize both team and supporters alike.
The achievements of Howe were mirrored on the field by Dan Burn, a pivotal player in the final who not only scored the opening goal but was also nominated for the Freedom of Northumberland. "It’s a great victory for the region and the fact a local lad from Blyth played such a crucial part in this journey is wonderful," remarked Glen Sanderson, leader of Northumberland County Council, as he confirmed plans to nominate Burn for this honor as well.
In recognition of Burn’s contributions, Northumberland National Park has temporarily renamed Elsdon Burn Walk to “Big Dan Burn Walk.” This tribute highlights not only his performance but also his stature—standing at 6ft 6in, he embodies the spirit of local talent shining on a national stage.
The festive atmosphere surrounding the club’s momentous victory is set to continue with a planned open-top bus parade through Newcastle on March 29, 2025. Fans have been urged to “save the date” to celebrate the long-awaited silverware and join in the festivities that showcase the club's storied legacy.
Should Howe’s nomination for Freedom of the City be ratified at a full council meeting later this year, he will join esteemed company. Legends like Alan Shearer, Sir Bobby Robson, and Shaka Hislop have previously been honored with this accolade, and once confirmed, Howe's name will be inscribed on the walls of the Banqueting Hall in the Civic Centre as a lasting reminder of his impact on the team and the community.
This recognition of Howe's contributions not only highlights his individual achievements but also emphasizes the significance of Newcastle United within the fabric of the city itself. As Kilgour aptly noted, "Newcastle United is part of the fabric of our city with the fortunes of the club playing a huge part in the lives of supporters in Newcastle and across the world, myself included."
Ultimately, the recent accomplishments of Newcastle United under Howe’s guidance have reinvigorated a passionate fanbase who have longed for success. The promise of recognition both for Howe and Burn serves as an inspiring narrative; it reflects the dreams of many in the region striving to achieve greatness, whether on the football pitch or in their own pursuits.
In the heart of Newcastle, there is no uncertainty that Eddie Howe has indeed cemented his legacy as a club legend, one who is poised to receive accolades that celebrate not just football victories but also the spirit and determination of the community he has uplifted.
