Newcastle United are seeking additional reinforcements at centre-back but Fabian Schar is not ready to give up his spot or walk away from St James' Park just yet. The Swiss defender is getting no younger at 33 but retains the backing of Eddie Howe, who ultimately saved the player's career on Tyneside after he was all but banished by his predecessor.
Schar featured in 34 of United's 38 top flight encounters last term and has played an integral role in the club's journey since the 2021 takeover. However, with limited investment in Howe's playing squad in recent windows, the Magpies are now in a position to actively push for young talent who can bolster their backline and potentially relegate Schar to the bench in the years to come.
Last summer saw Newcastle engaged in a long-winded pursuit to sign Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace, while recruitment chiefs have actively been scouring Europe in the hopes of finding the next Sven Botman. Back home, however, Schar is not concerned over his future and instead has spoken, once again, of the security he feels playing under Howe.
“It is extremely important that I feel the manager’s affection and that I enjoy his trust," he told Swiss outlet NZZ. "I felt that 100 per cent with Eddie Howe from day one.
“It has made me a better player over the past few years. He knows me very well, both as a player and as a person. He knows what I can offer a team. He makes that possible.
“The manager understands how to incorporate the individual strengths of each player into our game. For me, that is [also] opening up the game, which he encourages.
“If I never scored a goal, he would tell me to stop. I have always been a dangerous player in front of goal. The attacking mindset is part of my game. I am more likely to look for a finish than a cross.”
Schar put pen to paper on a new deal earlier this year, extending his contract at St James' Park until the summer of 2026. The move, from the side of both parties, was said to be a no-brainer, with Schar targeting another few years at the top level before hanging up his boots.
“When I extended my contract [in April 2025], I couldn’t imagine another club," he added. "I am a player who appreciates what I have.
“I would like to play football for another two or three years and so I am not thinking about retiring just yet.”
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