Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe says his side are better prepared for the UEFA Champions League this season and is looking forward to what he described as a “magical” night when the Magpies face Barcelona in their group stage opener at St James’ Park.
The Magpies, back in Europe’s elite competition after a year away, welcome last season’s semi-finalists in what promises to be a historic clash.
A Historic Fixture
Newcastle fans still recall the famous night in 1997 when Faustino Asprilla’s hat-trick inspired a 3-2 win over Barcelona. However, since then, the Premier League side have lost their last three meetings with the Catalan giants, last facing them in 2003.
“It is a historic fixture. As soon as we realised we were drawn against Barcelona, it had a sort of magical feel to it,” Howe told reporters. “I think it’ll be an amazing game to experience.”
Lessons From Last Season
In their last Champions League campaign, Newcastle finished bottom of their group but did produce one memorable result—a stunning 4-1 win at home against Paris Saint-Germain.
Howe believes those experiences will help his side this time around as they prepare to take on Barcelona, Benfica, Athletic Bilbao, and reigning champions PSG.
“Ultimately, we didn’t progress beyond the group stage and that was a big disappointment. But we can use those experiences to help us,” Howe said. “It’s a different squad now and I back the quality we have.”
Yamal Absent, But Barca Still Dangerous
Barcelona will be without their exciting 18-year-old winger Lamine Yamal, who has not made the trip due to injury. While Howe admitted he was disappointed not to see the youngster in action, he warned that Barcelona remain a dangerous side.
“Whoever they play, they’ve got real pace in wide areas,” Howe said. “They’re free-scoring and started the season very well. Structurally, our performance has got to be strong—we’ll need to defend very well in wide areas.”
Newcastle head into the clash with defensive confidence, having started their season solidly at the back. Howe insists discipline off the ball will be key if his team are to make a strong statement in Europe this season.
