Newcastle United Manager Eddie Howe Speaks on Upcoming Champions League Match

Eddie Howe

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe shares his thoughts on the upcoming match against Barcelona. Find out what he said about the team's strategy and player readiness.

“Whether it's easier to qualify or not, I don't know. That remains to be seen in terms of our strength and how well we do...”

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe recently spoke to the media ahead of the highly anticipated Champions League match against Barcelona. This matchup marks a significant encounter between the two teams, with their last meeting dating back to March 2003, when Newcastle secured a 2-0 win thanks to goals from Patrick Kluivert and Thiago Motta.

However, Barcelona will be without their star player Lamine Yamal, who has been ruled out due to a groin injury. The 18-year-old winger has been impressive this season, contributing four goals in his opening three La Liga matches. Yamal's absence will undoubtedly be felt by Barcelona, and it presents an opportunity for Newcastle to capitalize on his lack of involvement.

Newcastle United is looking to improve upon their previous Champions League campaign, where they were eliminated in the group stage. With this matchup, Newcastle will aim to make a strong impression in the new format. The match is scheduled to take place at St. James' Park on September 18, 2025, with kickoff at 20:00 WAT. Other Barcelona players sidelined for the match include Alejandro Balde (hamstring injury) and Gavi (knee injury), while Frenkie de Jong is available for selection.

Newcastle United Manager Eddie Howe on the Barcelona Match

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe is excited for the upcoming Champions League match against Barcelona, describing it as an “incredible” game. Ahead of the clash, Howe emphasized the magnitude of the matchup, highlighting the significance of facing a top-tier team like Barcelona in the Champions League. The game is expected to be one of the biggest of the competition so far, and Howe is focused on preparing his team for the challenge. With Barcelona's star player Lamine Yamal ruled out due to injury, Newcastle might see this as an opportunity to make a statement.

“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. I’m really excited to sample the atmosphere. I know it will be incredible.”

Eddie Howe on learning lessons from our last #UCL campaign:

"The experience, the size and the magnitude of the games - everything that goes into the Champions League is different to the Premier League. The build up is different, the feel is different. Having done that before… pic.twitter.com/aVAJwMKGYT

— Newcastle United (@NUFC) September 17, 2025

Barcelona's Threat Level Without Lamine Yamal

Eddie Howe acknowledged that Barcelona poses a significant threat, even without their star player Lamine Yamal, who has been ruled out due to a pubic bone injury. Despite his absence, Barcelona showcased their depth in their last match, winning 6-0 against Valencia with six different scorers. This performance highlights the team's ability to adapt and thrive even when key players are missing.

“A very good technical team, very good in possession, very comfortable on the ball, all their players look at ease in that respect.

“A lot of pace in wide areas, they're free scoring and started the season very well. All of those things lead to us having to defend very well, so the game plan has to be strong. 

“We've started the game very well defensively, so a continuation of that is going to be needed.”

Newcastle United Manager Praises New Champions League Format

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe believes the new Champions League format will benefit his team, as it provides more opportunities to play against top sides. The format change has been met with initial skepticism, but after last season, many have grown to appreciate it. Howe thinks the increased number of high-profile matches will help Newcastle gain valuable experience and exposure.

“I like the format. More games is good for us. We're learning as a team and adapting to the competition so the more we can face the competition the better we can become.

“Whether it's easier to qualify or not, I don't know. That remains to be seen in terms of our strength and how well we do.

“The players have to show they're good enough to play at this level - excelling at this level.”

The new format is expected to bring more competitive matches and increased revenue for clubs like Newcastle. By facing top teams more regularly, Newcastle can test themselves against the best and potentially gain valuable points. The format change is seen as a positive development for the club, allowing them to compete against top European teams more frequently.

Eddie Howe on Barcelona:

"Firstly they're a very good technical team. In possession they're very comfortable on the ball. They have a lot of pace in wide areas and a lot of goals. You saw in their last game they're free scoring and have started the season really well. All of… pic.twitter.com/Y7MO0DyAXO

— Newcastle United (@NUFC) September 17, 2025

Eddie Howe on Lamine Yamal's Absence

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe expressed his disappointment that Lamine Yamal will miss the match against Barcelona due to injury. Howe described it as a “shame” that he won't get to see one of the best young players in world football in action. Yamal's absence will undoubtedly impact Barcelona's attacking dynamics, but Howe's comments highlight the high regard in which he holds the young player.

“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.”