Photo File: Newcastle aim to exploit Barcelona injury crisis

Newcastle United is set to face Barcelona at St James’ Park on Thursday in the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 group stage opener, with the Magpies hoping to capitalize on a string of injuries affecting the Spanish giants.

Barcelona arrives in England without several key players, including teenage forward Lamine Yamal, goalkeeper Marc-André Ter Stegen, midfielder Gavi, and left-back Alejandro Balde.

Frenkie de Jong’s fitness is also uncertain, raising questions over the Catalans’ attacking and defensive balance. These absences offer Newcastle an opportunity to challenge one of Europe’s elite sides at home.

Manager Eddie Howe will welcome back winger Anthony Gordon from suspension, while summer signing Nick Woltemade, who scored in Newcastle’s Premier League win over Wolves, is expected to start.

The Magpies will still be without Yoane Wissa and Jacob Ramsey due to injuries.

Newcastle is likely to adopt a compact defensive approach, relying on counterattacks, set pieces, and the passionate St James’ Park crowd to pressure the visitors.

Barcelona, despite the absences, retain world-class talent such as Robert Lewandowski and Pedri, capable of controlling possession and creating scoring chances. However, the lack of depth may expose them to Newcastle’s home advantage.

Historically, Barcelona have dominated Newcastle in European competition, winning three of four previous UCL encounters. Newcastle’s only victory came in 1997, a 3-2 home win featuring a hat-trick from Faustino Asprilla.

This match provides the Magpies with a chance to exploit the Catalans’ current injury crisis and secure a memorable result.

Kick-off is scheduled for 8pm, with Newcastle aiming to turn Barcelona’s weakened squad into a competitive advantage, while the visitors seek to assert their authority in Europe despite missing several first-team players.