Eddie Howe emphasizes the historical importance of Newcastle’s upcoming Champions League clash with Barcelona. He acknowledges Barcelona’s attacking talent despite Lamine Yamal’s absence and highlights the need for a strong tactical approach and solid defense. The match marks a significant return to the Champions League for Newcastle.
Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe is eagerly anticipating the opportunity to face Barcelona in their Champions League opening match, an event he has characterized as "historic." The upcoming game at St. James' Park marks the fifth encounter between these two storied clubs. Newcastle famously won the first match 3-2 back in September 1997 under the guidance of Kenny Dalglish.
However, Newcastle have struggled against Spanish opposition in subsequent matches, losing their next three encounters. Overall, Newcastle have faced Spanish teams 11 times in major European competitions, securing victory in six of those matches while losing five. Notably, they have won their last three matches against Spanish teams.
Barcelona's attacking prowess has garnered considerable attention, particularly with Hansi Flick at the helm. However, the team will be without the services of Lamine Yamal due to injury. Flick's sides have consistently demonstrated a high goals-per-game average in the Champions League, with his Bayern Munich team averaging 3.2 goals per game between 2019 and 2021, and his current Barcelona team averaging 3.1 goals per game.
Howe acknowledged the tactical challenges that Barcelona presents, emphasizing the need for Newcastle to be strategically astute to secure a positive result. "It's a historic fixture. It'll be an amazing game to experience. I'm really excited to sample the atmosphere," Howe stated.
He further elaborated on Barcelona's strengths, noting their technical proficiency, ball possession skills, and comfort on the ball. "[They are] A very good technical team, very good in possession, very comfortable on the ball, all their players look at ease in that respect," Howe added. He also highlighted their pace in wide areas and their prolific goal-scoring record, emphasizing the need for Newcastle to defend effectively and implement a strong game plan.
"We've started the season very well defensively, so a continuation of that is going to be needed," Howe concluded. Newcastle will need to build on their defensive solidity if they are to contain Barcelona's attacking threat. The absence of Yamal is a significant blow for Barcelona, as the young winger has already made a substantial impact this season, contributing four goal involvements in three league games. He also played a pivotal role in Barcelona's Champions League campaign last season, scoring five goals and providing three assists, helping the team reach the semi-finals. Yamal completed more dribbles (56) than any other player in the competition in 2024-25, showcasing his attacking dynamism.
Howe expressed his disappointment that Yamal would not be playing, stating, "For me, it's a shame he's not playing. Disappointed we don't get to see him at his best. But whoever they play, they have real pace in wide areas, international players who will challenge us in different ways."
Among the players who could potentially fill Yamal's position is Marcus Rashford, who has a strong record against Newcastle. Rashford has been directly involved in eight goals in 11 career starts against Newcastle, including four in six starts at St. James' Park. Rashford’s ability to both score and assist against Newcastle makes him a dangerous player to watch.
Newcastle United's official Twitter account also highlighted Howe's anticipation for the match:
Eddie Howe on tomorrow’s visit of Barcelona:
“It’s a historic fixture. As soon as we realised we were drawn against Barcelona it had a magical feel to it. It’ll be an amazing game to experience. I’m focused on tactical preparation and making sure we deliver a good performance.… pic.twitter.com/9z2zNGEAvn
— Newcastle United (@NUFC) September 17, 2025