Team News: Howe Makes Two Changes for Athletic Club Clash
Eddie Howe has made two adjustments to the Newcastle United lineup after their defeat at West Ham United in the Premier League as they prepare to face Athletic Club in the UEFA Champions League.
Starting XI Changes
- Kieran Trippier and Harvey Barnes replace Emil Krafth and Jacob Murphy in the starting eleven.
- Captain Bruno Guimarães has recovered from illness and will return to midfield.
The Magpies aim to secure their third win from four matches in the competition. Anthony Gordon, who has scored in every Champions League game so far, will support Nick Woltemade upfront.
William Osula was originally named on the bench but will not participate due to ankle discomfort; his condition will be reassessed in the coming days.
Champions League Context
Newcastle have already surpassed their previous season’s points total of five in the Champions League. A victory against the La Liga side will equal their all-time best group stage tally of nine points, achieved in the 2002/03 season.
Newcastle United Squad for the Match
- Starting XI: Nick Pope, Kieran Trippier, Sven Botman, Joelinton, Sandro Tonali, Anthony Gordon, Harvey Barnes, Malick Thiaw, Nick Woltemade, Dan Burn, Bruno Guimarães (captain)
- Unused substitutes: Max Thompson, Aaron Ramsdale, Lewis Hall, Fabian Schär, Emil Krafth, Anthony Elanga, Jacob Murphy, Joe Willock, Alex Murphy, Jacob Ramsey, Lewis Miley
Author’s summary: Newcastle United make strategic lineup changes ahead of their crucial Champions League match, aiming to match their historical best group stage points total.