Newcastle United begin their latest UEFA Champions League campaign with a daunting Group Stage clash against Barcelona at St James’ Park on Thursday night.
The Magpies endured a difficult return to Europe’s top competition in 2023/24, managing just one victory and finishing bottom of their group. They did, however, show defensive resilience in that campaign, something Eddie Howe will be hoping to build upon as they look to make more of an impression this season.
Domestically, Newcastle’s form has been mixed. They have taken just five points from their opening four Premier League games, leaving them in 10th place, but finally recorded their first league win of the season at the weekend with a narrow 1-0 success over Wolves. That result provided a timely boost ahead of a fixture of this magnitude.
Barcelona, meanwhile, arrive in the North East as one of the tournament favourites. The Catalans reached the semi-finals last season and were the highest scorers in the competition, netting 28 goals. Their attacking options remain formidable, with Robert Lewandowski, Ferran Torres and Raphinha all capable of punishing any defensive lapses.
Hansi Flick’s side have started strongly in La Liga, remaining unbeaten and hitting top gear with a 6-0 demolition of Valencia at the weekend. Lewandowski and Raphinha were both given partial rests in that game, further underlining their squad depth and the scale of the challenge facing Newcastle.
Defensive vulnerabilities could give the Magpies some hope. Barcelona have conceded two or more goals in seven of their last eight away matches in European competition, suggesting Newcastle’s forwards may get opportunities if they can keep their composure.
Barça will, however, be without several key players for the trip. Teenage sensation Lamine Yamal is sidelined with a groin injury, while Marc-André ter Stegen, Gavi and Alejandro Balde are also unavailable. Despite those absences, Flick’s side head into the contest in buoyant mood and keen to make a statement on Matchday 1.
Newcastle United v Barcelona will be broadcast live on TNT Sports 1, with coverage starting at 7pm ahead of the 8pm kick-off at St James’ Park.