Newcastle v Barcelona – Line-ups, stats and preview

A blockbuster night of Champions League action awaits at St James’ Park on Thursday, where Newcastle United open their League Phase campaign against Spanish giants Barcelona.

It’s the first meeting between the sides in over two decades. Back in March 2003, goals from Patrick Kluivert and Thiago Motta sealed a 2-0 win for the Blaugrana in the second group stage clash of that particular campaign.

Newcastle arrive with a boost after ending their three-match winless run in the Premier League thanks to new striker Nick Woltemade.

The 6ft 6in German, signed for a club-record fee after Alexander Isak’s late exit, marked his debut with a trademark header in a 1-0 win over Wolves.

Eddie Howe praised his side afterwards, insisting he “didn’t see much wrong” with their performance.

This is Newcastle’s second Champions League appearance in three seasons and their fourth overall.

Last time out in 2023-24, they fell short in a tough group featuring PSG, Dortmund and AC Milan. The Magpies know another testing schedule awaits with Barcelona, PSG, Benfica, Marseille and Bayer Leverkusen among their League Phase opponents.