Team News: Howe Makes Two Changes for Athletic Club Clash
Eddie Howe has made two adjustments to the Newcastle United starting lineup ahead of their UEFA Champions League match against Athletic Club. Kieran Trippier and Harvey Barnes replace Emil Krafth and Jacob Murphy in the starting XI.
Captain Bruno Guimarães has recovered from illness and returns to the midfield as the Magpies aim for their third win in four Champions League games this season.
Key Player Updates
- Anthony Gordon has scored in every Champions League game Newcastle have played so far, supporting striker Nick Woltemade.
- William Osula, who was initially listed on the bench, will not participate due to ankle discomfort; his condition will be reassessed over the next few days.
Champions League Context
Newcastle has already surpassed their points total from the 2023/24 Champions League campaign, having earned five points so far. A victory against Athletic Club would equal their best-ever group stage points tally of nine, which was set in 2002/03.
Expected Newcastle United Lineup
- Goalkeeper: Nick Pope
- Defenders: Kieran Trippier, Sven Botman, Joelinton, Dan Burn
- Midfielders: Sandro Tonali, Bruno Guimarães (c), Malick Thiaw
- Wingers: Anthony Gordon, Harvey Barnes
- Forward: Nick Woltemade
Unused Substitutes
- Max Thompson, Aaron Ramsdale, Lewis Hall, Fabian Schär, Emil Krafth, Anthony Elanga, Jacob Murphy, Joe Willock, Alex Murphy, Jacob Ramsey, Lewis Miley
"Skipper Bruno Guimarães has recovered sufficiently from illness to take his place in midfield as the Magpies look to make it three wins from four in the competition."
Newcastle’s lineup tweaks reflect their focused approach to building momentum in the Champions League group stage.