Howe relishing ´historic´ Barcelona clash on Champions League return

Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe is relishing the chance of facing Barcelona in their first match of their Champions League, a fixture he described as “historic”.

The encounter at St. James’ Park will be the fifth meeting between the two clubs, with Newcastle winning the first match 3-2 back in September 1997 under Kenny Dalglish.

Newcastle have, however, lost each of their next three fixtures against Spanish opponents, with luck against teams from that part of Europe unfortunately not on their side.

They have previously faced Spanish opposition 11 times in major European competitions, winning six of those matches (lost five), including each of their last three in succession.

Barcelona’s formidable attack caught the eyes of many in 2024-25, though Hansi Flick’s star-studded frontline will be missing Lamine Yamal, who is ruled out through injury.

Quick take: Big picture: the update fits broader trends across the league with schedule pressure and tight tables. Supporters will watch for clarity from training ground reports and official briefings. Continental stakes raise the intensity, where away goals no longer apply but margins still feel razor thin. We’ll keep an eye on confirmed details as the story develops from official sources.

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Howe relishing ´historic´ Barcelona clash on Champions League return